Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised senior BJP leader S. Suresh Kumar for his feat of cycling from Bengaluru to Kanniyakumari, describing the effort as commendable and inspiring, particularly in view of the health challenges he overcame at the age of 70.

In a post on X on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the achievement reflected grit, determination and the importance of physical fitness. He also said that he spoke to Suresh Kumar and personally congratulated him on the accomplishment.

“Shri S. Suresh Kumar Ji’s feat of cycling from Bengaluru to Kanniyakumari is commendable and inspiring. The fact that it was done after he overcame health setbacks highlights his grit and unyielding spirit. It also gives an important message of fitness. Spoke to him and congratulated him for the effort,” PM Modi wrote.

Suresh Kumar, a former Karnataka minister and MLA from the Rajajinagar Assembly constituency in Bengaluru, completed the 702-kilometre cycling journey in five days. The expedition drew widespread attention as it was undertaken at the age of 70 and after his recovery from serious health issues.

In a separate post on X, Suresh Kumar said he was thrilled to receive a call from the Prime Minister congratulating him on the cycling expedition. He added that PM Modi was keen to know the details of the journey and its significance.