Every ride has a purpose, but this one carried pride. Our Indian Navy Day Ride from Bhubaneswar to Puri was not just a road trip — it was a rolling tribute to the brave hearts who protect our nation's maritime borders. As members of Biking Brothers Odisha (BBO), we took to the road with honor, discipline, and deep respect for the Indian Navy.
📍 Ride Snapshot
Start: Bhubaneswar
Destination: Puri Marine Drive Beach
Distance: ~65 km (one way)
Ride Theme: Salute to Indian Navy
Group Size: 30+ Riders
🎯 The Purpose
Celebrated on 4th December every year, Indian Navy Day commemorates the courage and strength of our naval forces, especially remembering their valiant efforts during the 1971 war. This ride was our small tribute to the unsung heroes guarding our seas. Riders wore navy-themed arm bands, flags, and many had Indian tricolors on their bikes to reflect our patriotic spirit.
🌄 Departure from Bhubaneswar
We gathered early morning at our designated start point in Bhubaneswar. The winter chill had just set in, and the foggy skyline added a dramatic mood to our lineup. After a group briefing, national anthem, and a moment of silence for the fallen soldiers, we kickstarted the engines. The sound of 30+ bikes roaring in unison through the mist was goosebump-worthy.
🛣️ The Route to Puri
Our route took us via the Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Puri stretch, mostly smooth highway with wide lanes, light early morning traffic, and greenery on both sides. Riding in a tight formation, we ensured discipline, safety, and zero overtaking within the group. With flags flying and headlights on, we passed through sleepy towns, receiving salutes and smiles from locals.
🥪 Mid-Ride Stop & Refreshment
Near Sakhigopal, we made a short stop for tea and light snacks. The warmth of ginger tea under the cold sky was perfect. Many curious onlookers approached us, appreciating the reason for the ride. A few ex-navy family members even stopped by to thank us for the gesture — it made everything more meaningful.
🏖️ Arrival at Puri Marine Drive
We reached Puri Marine Drive around 9:30 AM. The fresh sea breeze and crashing waves welcomed us. We lined up our bikes near the beach stretch, parked carefully, and walked toward the open area where our tribute program was planned. The calm of the ocean reminded us why our Navy stands strong — to protect such peace.
🇮🇳 The Navy Tribute Ceremony
A short but impactful ceremony took place by the sea. Riders stood in silence, then raised a loud collective salute toward the Bay of Bengal. A flag hoisting was done by our senior-most member, followed by singing the National Anthem with full heart. A banner with “Ride for the Indian Navy – Salute to the Silent Warriors” was displayed.
A few of our riders shared stories of family members who served in the Navy or Armed Forces. It was emotional, powerful, and brought a sense of unity and pride among us all.
📸 Photos, Fun, and the Brotherhood
The beach made for a perfect backdrop. We captured wide-angle group shots with flags, individual portraits, helmet line-ups, and candid laughs. Some bikers even wrote “Navy Day Ride” on the sand with their gloves, immortalizing the moment.
After a while, we sat in circles, sharing food, jokes, and stories from past rides. A few did slow bike control challenges on the sand stretch — all in fun spirit. It wasn’t just a ride anymore, it was a celebration of what we stand for: respect, unity, and purpose.
🍴 Lunch and Return Journey
We had lunch at a coastal dhaba serving fresh seafood and thalis. Post-lunch, we spent a bit more time soaking in the sea view before mounting our machines once more. The return ride was calm and introspective, with many riders silently replaying the morning in their minds.
We reached Bhubaneswar by late afternoon, regrouped at our starting point, thanked one another, and ended with a promise — to ride not just for thrill, but for causes that matter.
🛡️ Safety & Protocol
Helmets were mandatory. Many wore jackets, gloves, and high-visibility vests. One lead bike and one tailing sweeper maintained formation integrity. Riders communicated using pre-decided hand signals. A first aid kit and toolkit were carried by backup riders. No stunts, no overspeeding — only honor on the road.
💬 Rider Voices
“This ride wasn’t about miles. It was about respect.” – Pradeep, BBO Core Member
“Seeing the flag wave in the wind beside the sea gave me chills.” – Rakesh, Rider & Photographer
“My father served in the Navy. This ride was my salute to him.” – Anup, Rider
📍 About Navy Day
Indian Navy Day is observed every year on December 4th to honor the maritime forces and remember Operation Trident — a major naval attack on Karachi harbor during the 1971 war. The day reminds us of the Navy’s vital role in national security and disaster relief.
🔗 More Rides to Explore
- Sambalpur Ride
- Explore Ride to Balakumari Hills
- Sapua Dam Ride
- Night Camp At T-Bridge
- BBSR To Naraj ride
At BBO, every ride is a story — and the Navy Day Ride was a chapter of honor. Until next time, ride safe, ride proud. Jai Hind 🇮🇳