Report: John Wilbert
Port Blair, 14 August 2024: In an inspiring display of patriotism and physical fitness, 67-year-old SK Roy (Bachu Bhai), a retired officer (Assistant Account Officer) from the Pay and Accounts Office under the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, undertook a remarkable solo swim this morning to raise awareness for the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. Starting from the Water Sports Complex at Marine Park, the senior citizen swam a distance of 1.6 kilometers to reach Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, and then made the return journey, covering a total of 3.2 kilometers without any assistance.
Bachu Bhai began his swim at around 7:30 AM, reaching Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island in approximately 40 minutes. After resting for half an hour, he swam back to the Water Sports Complex, all the while carrying the Indian National Flag. His feat left onlookers in awe, with many expressing surprise at his exceptional fitness, especially at his age.
The News Aaptak team conducted an investigation into the matter and spoke with officials from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, as well as Bachu Bhai’s friends and family. They all attested to his remarkable physical and mental fitness. Despite being in his sixties, Bachu Bhai continues to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
A dedicated social worker and a member of the Andaman and Nicobar Nature Awareness Association, Bachu Bhai is no stranger to challenging endeavors. Last year, on March 18, 2023, he participated in the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Open Sea Swimming Competition, organized as part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, A&N Administration. The event saw 191 participants, including the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral DK Joshi (Retd.), who competed in the Senior Citizen category (60 to 70 years). Bachu Bhai was among the medalists in this category, successfully completing the race.
This morning’s solo swim not only highlights Bachu Bhai’s unwavering spirit and dedication to the nation but also serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to physical fitness and patriotism. His effort in promoting the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign stands as an inspiration to all, encouraging others to participate actively in celebrating the nation’s Independence Day.
