Ukhrul: A team consisting of five avid riders from the Ukhrul district in Manipur has recently concluded its thrilling and purposeful motorcycle tour on the theme ‘Ride for Common Hope’.
The tour, which began simultaneously from the Ukhrul district in Manipur and Guwahati in Assam, saw two teams converging in the state of Nagaland, symbolising unity and brotherhood.
According to the team, they embarked on the journey from Ukhrul town on October 22 and another team from Guwahati on October 18 and later met up at Jessami before they headed for their destination in Nagaland. The team embarked on a 1,087-kilometre journey through scenic landscapes, fostering bonds of camaraderie and understanding.
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“This initiative was not just a motorcycle expedition but a heartfelt effort to connect with fellow brothers in Nagaland through prayers,” said Shangcham Shangjam, a member of the motorcycle tour.
During the motorcycle expedition, the team made stops at many places, including Dimapur, Piphema, Zubza, Kohima, Pfutsero, Phek, Jessami, Meluri, Waziho, Shilloi Lake, and Phokhungri.
“These stops were not just rest points but opportunities to connect with the local communities, church leaders and students where the riders exchanged stories, and engaged in meaningful interactions and prayers for the healing of our land and people,” informed Shangjam.
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One of the highlights of the tour was the visit to the famous Shilloi Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in Nagaland, where the riders took a moment to appreciate the natural beauty and significance of the region.
The journey was not merely about covering distances on motorcycles but about embracing the cultural diversity and rich heritage of Nagaland, and also about just being awe-struck by the grandeur of the Almighty, added Shangjam.
At each village, the team offered prayers and also spent time interacting with church leaders and the villagers, learning about their traditions, and sharing tales of their own experiences. The “Ride for Common Hope” aimed to bridge gaps and build bridges of understanding between communities, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose.
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“We believe in the power of unity and shared hope. This journey was not just about riding motorcycles but it was about connecting hearts and fostering a sense of brotherhood. The warmth and hospitality we received in Nagaland have left an indelible mark on our hearts,” said Aran Chihui, another member of the motorcycle tour.
The riders also expressed their gratitude for the warm reception received in every village, emphasising the shared aspirations and hopes that connect people across geographical boundaries.
The “Ride for Common Hope” motorcycle tour serves as a testament to the transformative power of human connections and the shared spirit of hope that unites us all.
It was also an opportunity for us to pray for our land, especially the villages along the Jessami-Ukhrul Highway, added Chihui.
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The tour ended at Ukhrul headquarters on Wednesday evening with a warm reception and a prayer of thanksgiving by Rev Zaklei Kaping, pastor, Phungyo Baptist Church, Tangrei, Ukhrul.