Indian cyclist Fayis Ashraf Ali, who is on a solo ride from the southern state of Kerala to London, was accorded several receptions in Doha last week during his transit of Qatar.
Organised with the slogan 'From Heart to Heart' and with the objective of spreading the message of love and peace among the world population, the cycling journey is estimated to take at least 450 days during which Ali is expected to cover 30,000km in 35 countries and two continents before reaching his destination.


Ali addressing a group of students at MES Indian School


At the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), the management committee and community leaders came together to fete the adventurer. The software professional-turned cross-country cyclist recalled how he quit his job, went home to support his ailing father, and later with the support of his wife and family went on a bicycle tour of eight countries in the Far East, starting from Singapore. His next mission is to travel to 35 countries and finally reach London.
At MES Indian School, Ali addressed a group of enthusiastic students. He stressed the importance of youngsters developing an undaunted spirit and never-say-no attitude towards reaching goals in life. Ali encouraged the students to develop a passion for achieving remarkable things in life so as to leave a trail behind for others to emulate. Principal Hameeda Kadar congratulated him and wished him all success in his mission of spreading goodwill.