Mumbai-based kayaker Kaustubh’s fiancée Shanjali says the sole aim for her expeditions with Asian medallist is to break stereotypes among women
Kayaker Kaustubh Khade with fiancee Shanjali Shahi at Mumbai Press Club yesterday. Pic/Bipin Kokate
Kayaker Kaustubh Khade with fiancee Shanjali Shahi at Mumbai Press Club yesterday. Pic/Bipin Kokate
When Asian silver medal-winning kayaker Kaustubh Khade urged his fiancée Shanjali Shahi to embark on an arduous 100-day journey from Kutch to Kanyakumari, it didn’t require much of convincing to set out on the 33,000 km joint expedition.
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Shanjali, a professional cyclist, took on the challenge to partner Kaustubh as they covered the entire west coast of India — one by land and the other by sea — which they completed in 83 days.
Limca record on the cards?
The couple have sent details of their feat to the publishers of the Limca Book of Records.
For Shanjali, more than the adventure, it was a mission to break stereotypes among women. “I have been brought up listening to people who say that it is not safe for women to travel alone in India. There are very few women who are so daring. To achieve such a feat is a matter of immense pride,” said the 28-year-old, who cycled solo from Mumbai to Goa in April 2016 and then from Manali to Leh in the same year.
For Shanjali, a marketing manager by profession, the recent expedition was not thoroughly demanding. She encountered many problems riding solo through five different states like when a drunken biker chased her in Mahe (part of Pondicherry but situated within Kerala). “Once, a man on a motorbike approached me and started riding alongside me for a kilometre, passing lewd comments. Thankfully, I had my entourage behind and they managed to keep him away from me,” Shanjali said.
East coast, the next target
Shanjali revealed that the couple are planning their next trip from Kanyakumari to Kolkata which will begin in six months time. Asked about how her family’s response to the idea of her expeditions, Shanjali said: “I have the full backing of my parents. They have their concerns, but always ensure that I will be able to take care of myself. My father tells me to plan and prepare for everything that comes my way,” said Shanjali.
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