Undeterred by the divisibility and difficulties, Tameem Ansari, a one armed cyclist on Saturday embarked on a 3500 kilometres journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari to raise awareness about smartphone addiction among children.
Tameem Ansari, who has lost his right arm, told that he was inspired by his own experience of overcoming his disability and pursuing his passion for cycling.
He said he wanted to motivate others, especially children, to live a healthy and active lifestyle, and to use technology wisely and responsibly.
“I have seen many children who are addicted to smartphones and tablets, and they are missing out on the joys of childhood. They are not playing outdoors, they are not interacting with their peers, they are not learning new skills. They are becoming couch potatoes and zombies,” Ansari told Rising Kashmir.
He said he hoped his journey would inspire parents to limit the screen time of their children and encourage them to engage in physical and mental activities.
He also urged the government and the education sector to implement policies and programs that would promote digital literacy and digital well-being among children.
Ansari started his journey from Ghantaghar Lalchowk Srinagar and plans to reach Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, in 23 days, passing through several states and cities along the way. He said he is carrying a tent, a sleeping bag, a stove, and some clothes and food items with him on his bicycle.
He said he is confident of completing his challenge, despite the physical and mental difficulties he might face. He said he had trained hard for the past six months and has also received support and encouragement from his family, friends, and fellow cyclists.
“I am not doing this for fame or money. I am doing this for a cause that I believe in. I want to make a difference in the lives of children and their future. I want to show them that nothing is impossible if you have a strong will and a positive attitude,” Ansari said.
He said he also had to deal with the curiosity and skepticism of some people who doubted his ability and motive.
“Some people think I am crazy or stupid to do this. But I don’t let this affect me. I know I am doing something good and meaningful. I also meet many people who appreciate and support me. They offer me food, water, shelter, or guidance. They cheer me up and join me for a while. They make me feel welcome and happy,” Ansari said.
Ansari said he also enjoys the beauty and diversity of India, as he cycled through different landscapes, cultures, and cuisines. He said he learned a lot from his interactions with the local people, and he shared his message and story with them.
Ansari said he hoped his journey would reach and touch as many people as possible, and inspire them to take action against smartphone addiction among children.
He said he believed that his one-armed cycling feat would show them that anything is possible with a positive mindset and a noble purpose.
“I want to tell the children that they have a lot of potential and talent, and they should not waste it on their screens. I want to tell them that they should explore the world, learn new things, make new friends, and have fun. I want to tell them that they should be smart and responsible with their technology use, and not let it control them.
I want to tell them that they should follow their dreams and passions, and not give up on them. I want to tell them that they are the future of this country, and they should make it a better place,” Ansari said.
Ansari said he expected to reach Kanyakumari by March 31, 2024, where he would celebrate his achievement and thank his supporters.
“I will continue to cycle and spread the message, look for new challenges and causes to support”, he added.
He said that it gives him a sense of satisfaction and joy while making him feel alive and free. “It makes me forget my disability and focus on my ability. It makes me a better person and a happier person. It makes me who I am,” he added.
