In a momentous event blending history, innovation, and engineering, the Indian Navy and Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles have etched their names into the record books. On December 11, the “Ride of the Marakkars” motorcycle rally became the first convoy to cross the iconic Atal Setu Sea Bridge, India’s longest bridge. This achievement marked a pioneering feat for Jawa, Yezdi, and BSA motorcycles as the first Indian brands to traverse this engineering marvel.
The ride celebrated India’s maritime legacy and highlighted the synergy between the indigenous spirit of Indian manufacturing and the resilience of the Armed Forces. The Atal Setu, typically restricted to motorcycles, opened its lanes to host this historic rally, emphasizing its symbolic significance in India’s engineering and motorcycling chronicles.
The rally, comprising 22 motorcycles, was spearheaded by senior officers of the Indian Navy, alongside personnel from the Western Naval Command, the Army, and the Air Force. Representing India’s “Make in India” vision, the motorcycles showcased homegrown craftsmanship and innovation. Beginning at INS Kunjali in Mumbai, the rally traversed key maritime landmarks, including Pune, Satara, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, and Goa.
Highlights included stops at historical sites such as Ratnadurg Fort, Fort Aguada, and Sinhagad Fort, underscoring the riders’ tribute to India’s rich naval heritage and the legendary Kunjali Marakkars.
Speaking about the achievement, Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group and co-founder of Classic Legends, expressed pride in the motorcycles’ pivotal role in the event. “These Made-in-India machines collaborating with the Navy to celebrate our maritime history is an inspiring moment,” he remarked.
Lieutenant Commander Vishal Nair, part of the convoy, reflected on the significance: “Crossing Atal Setu was not just a physical milestone but a tribute to the countless bridges the Navy builds—literal and metaphorical—with the people of this nation.”
Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles share a strong bond with the Indian Armed Forces, often participating in events such as the INS Vikramaditya expedition and Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations. The “Ride of the Marakkars” extended this tradition, symbolizing reliability, heritage, and respect for India’s defenders.
As the engines roared across Atal Setu, the event served as a celebration of India’s engineering prowess, cultural heritage, and the indomitable spirit of its Armed Forces. With this historic ride, the Navy and Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles have set a benchmark for future collaborations, uniting passion, patriotism, and performance
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