This 70-year-old Surat textile tycoon pedals 40 km daily and 300 km yearly to Shirdi on same Rs 2,000 Atlas bike from 1990s

Suresh Jariwala, a 70-year-old textile businessman in Surat, begins his day at 5.45 am with a 30-40 km bicycle ride, a practice he has followed since 1972. Despite owning several new cars and electric two-wheelers, Jariwala chooses to ride a basic Atlas bicycle he purchased in the 1990s for Rs 2,000, a TOI report stated.

Fitness by routine, not display

"I ride because it's part of me," said Jariwala, who is well known in Surat’s business community for his fitness habits and consistent lifestyle. His choice to cycle is not for show or sport but as a personal commitment to health and discipline.

Jariwala’s cycling routine began when his factory was located in Surat. Even after the unit shifted to Ankleshwar in 1982, he continued the practice. His commute included a 3-km cycle ride to Surat station, a train journey to Ankleshwar, and a final 4-km ride on another cycle kept at the station. He followed this pattern every day without breaks or changes.

Three-decade-old bicycle still in use

The Atlas bicycle entered his life in the 1990s. It is a basic model with a heavy frame. Despite the passage of time, the cycle remains in regular use. The frame remains intact and the wheels continue to function reliably, matching Jariwala’s steady commitment.

Fitness extends beyond cycling

In addition to cycling, Jariwala walks 10,000 steps a day, takes part in races, and joins marathons. Once every year, he cycles 300 km to Shirdi in Maharashtra. His family, a joint household of 22 members, supports and respects his lifestyle. He is the youngest of four brothers, and the family includes members as young as three years old.

Spirit over speed

Navin Patel, a fellow textile businessman and friend, said, "Modern bikes are carbon fibre, super light. His is heavy metal. But his spirit? Lighter than wind."

Jariwala’s story continues to inspire those around him. His bicycle may be old, but his dedication shows no signs of slowing.