If dreams have wings and determination has strength, no obstacle in the world can stop your path. This is the story of Ambika Sonia, regarded as Punjab’s first woman solo bike rider, who has carved a unique identity in the world of biking.
For Ambika, biking is not just a hobby. It is a way to express her love for the country and to present women as responsible and capable riders in society.
The Purpose Behind Choosing Biking
Ambika shares that she has always loved outdoor life. After the COVID period, she developed a dream to travel across and explore the entire country.
To fulfill this dream, she chose biking. She believes that through biking, she can not only explore India but also demonstrate the strength and capability of women.
Changing Social Perception with Positivity
Often, society does not hold a very positive perception of bikers. Many assume that riders are simply roaming for leisure or time-pass.
However, Ambika believes that if your work carries a positive message, family and society begin to appreciate it. Each of her rides has a purpose, which has earned her admiration from people.
K2K Ride and India Book of Records
One of Ambika’s biggest achievements is her ride along NH-44, known as the K2K (Kashmir to Kanyakumari) route.
Initially, this record was held by a male rider. After crossing Delhi from Punjab, senior riders encouraged her to attempt a new record.
She then completed a journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and back to Kashmir. She documented the ride with petrol slips, toll receipts, and photographs, and submitted these as proof. Following verification, her name was recorded in the India Book of Records (as per submitted documentation).
Historic Journey to the Five Takhts
Ambika also completed the journey to the five Sikh Takhts (Sri Panj Takht Sahib) as a solo female rider.
Her motivation was clear: no woman had completed this journey alone before. She planned it with positivity and received strong appreciation from society.
Safety and Family Support
Safety is often the biggest concern in solo riding.
Ambika explains that she maintains a support system that includes her mother, husband, and friends. She regularly shares her live location so that her family remains reassured about her safety.
She believes that when your intentions are clear and transparent, your family supports you. During rides, challenges such as running out of fuel or mechanical issues do occur, but family support makes everything manageable.
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and Siachen Base Ride
During India’s 75th year of Independence, the government organised rides to important freedom monuments.
Professional bikers from across India were selected, and Ambika was chosen to represent Punjab. During this 100-day ride, she covered multiple states.
One of the most significant highlights was her opportunity, with support from the Government of India and sports authorities, to visit and stay near the Siachen Base, a location that is otherwise inaccessible to civilians.
Training Women Riders
Ambika realised that riding herself was not enough; she wanted to bring more women into the field.
Over the past year, she has started training women riders. So far, more than 100 women have trained under her guidance.
She has also formed a women’s riding club, where short rides are organised.
Understanding that expensive bikes can be a barrier, she includes women who ride scooters like Activa, enabling them to experience independence as well.
Message to Society: Courage and Self-Belief
Ambika believes that women should step beyond routine domestic responsibilities.
When women step out, fear reduces and confidence grows. She emphasises that modern women must prioritise themselves, overcome self-doubt, and follow their passion.
Mutual Respect and Support Among Women
She highlights the importance of women supporting and respecting each other.
According to her, a woman acts like a mirror for her family and society. The way she sees herself influences how others perceive and are inspired by her.
Ambika Sonia’s journey teaches us that when intentions are clear and purpose is strong, the world stands with you.
Through biking, she has not only brought pride to Punjab but has also emerged as a role model for thousands of women. Her journey continues as she inspires women to move forward with courage and confidence.
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