Sheikhpura: Samira Khan, an adventurer who has travelled to 37 countries and climbed 11 mountains including the Himalayas, reached Sheikhpura in Bihar on Saturday during her all-India cycling journey. Originally from Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh, Samira arrived by bicycle at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, where she was warmly welcomed by students and teachers. Her visit created excitement among students, many of whom were eager to listen to her experiences and ideas.
Samira spent several hours at the school and interacted closely with the students. Before continuing her journey towards Jharkhand through Jamui, she addressed the gathering and spoke about the purpose of her long cycling tour. She explained that she is travelling across India to inspire and empower girls and women, especially those living in rural areas, to believe in themselves and aim higher in life.
During her speech, Samira spoke about the unequal treatment that girls often face in society. She said that girls usually have more restrictions than boys, both within families and outside. Even educated girls, she explained, are sometimes married off if they do not succeed in jobs or business, while boys in similar situations are given more time and freedom to find their path. According to her, this difference in treatment needs to change.
Samira emphasised that daughters should be given the same freedom and opportunities as sons. She said real empowerment begins when families trust their daughters and allow them to make choices about education, careers and life. Sharing her own journey as an example, she encouraged students to break social barriers and follow their dreams with confidence.
Samira has already cycled through several states including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Apart from her journey in India, she has travelled to many countries across Africa, Europe and South America and climbed mountains around the world. After leaving Sheikhpura, she continued her cycling journey towards Jharkhand, carrying forward her message of equality and freedom for girls.
