When you support a noble cause, it is never a problem to go that extra mile, whether on foot or pedals. Khanin Roy, Jogesh Deka, and Kankana Medhi embarked on an epic 500-kilometre cycle tour to spread awareness about drug abuse and depression.

The cyclathon began at Gita Satra in Pathsala, Assam on January 14, 2022, and culminated at Madhupur Satra in Cooch Behar, West Bengal on January 17, 2022.

The 500-km arduous journey was organised under the aegis of Pathsala's Brain and Figure.

"Depression is becoming a leading cause of suicide in the world. These have forced people to even kill themselves. Many students, actors, and farmers commit suicide as a result of depression during COVID-19. Some people today stay away from physical activities and immerse themselves in virtual worlds. They must be encouraged to take up activities like cycling, walking, swimming and adventure sports so that they remain physically fit and active, "said Khanin Roy while interacting with the media.

"Around 35 million people worldwide suffer from drug use disorders while only one in seven people receives treatment," he added.

Nowadays, drug addiction has become a serious concern among youths. They need to control it by mediation or exercise, "he emphasized.

This was not the first time Roy had undertaken such a journey in support of a noble cause.

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Earlier in 2020, Khanin Roy walked 900 km from Sadiya to Dhubri, spreading the same message. This is the seventh time that he has undertaken such a journey.

Roy is also a kickboxing champion. In addition to several medals, he was adjudged "Best Fighter" in the Northeast in 1999. He has also swum across the Brahmaputra.

Throughout the journey, the team received warm responses from people from Assam and West Bengal.

In addition to felicitations, they were offered free food and overnight stay options. Those who came into contact with them appreciated their effort and hoped that they would succeed in their mission.

"We hope youths facing issues with drug abuse and depression would understand our mission," Roy concluded.