Motorcycle buddies Mohan Mallappa and Babu Vishweshvariah share life lessons on the road

The 50-plus-year-olds share the experiences and wisdom they gained during their rides

During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, motorcycle buddies Mohan Mallappa (50) and Babu Vishweshvariah (56) rode from Bengaluru to Wayanad (about 270 kilometres) to deliver cancer medicine for a retired Lieutenant Colonel. They were a part of Riders Republic Motorcycle Club’s (RRMC) eight-member team that carried essential medicines to remote corners of Karnataka and beyond. They could not meet the officer. On their way back, he called to thank them.

“A man who has put his life on the line for our country called to thank us. It was very touching,” says Mohan.

During the first phase of the lockdown, many people could not get their regular medicines. The elderly especially needed help. Mohan and Babu read an article on a police constable riding a scooter from Bengaluru to Hubballi to deliver a life-saving drug. That inspired them to form a team with the Bengaluru police's support. This team made about 20 deliveries across South India.