Inspiring Journey of Deaf Bikers from Kerala
Kerala Deaf bikers successfully completed a South India awareness ride in January 2026, proving that Deaf people can ride and promoting unity and inclusion.
In Kerala, Shinan PS, a Deaf man, became one of the first Deaf bikers to travel across India. He documented his journey on social media, visiting many cities and meeting Deaf associations and friends who supported him with stay and encouragement. After successfully completing his tours, Shinan began thinking about other Deaf people who wanted to ride but felt afraid or unsure how to start. He wanted to help the community grow.
Shinan spoke to Sonu Sunny from Alappuzha and Krishna Chand from Palakkad. The three came together and started an association in Wayanad, Kerala, in 2021. Sonu Sunny finalised the name Kerala Bikers and designed the logo beautifully. Soon after, they organised their first gathering of about 20 people travelling from Palakkad to Wayanad. It was a two-day event full of fun and shared experiences on social media. However, after that, the activities became quiet for some time.
In 2026, Henry Sunny from Thrissur contacted the team and encouraged them to restart the biker tour. He joined the team, and they planned a ride from 23 to 26 January 2026 covering Palakkad, Pollachi, Palani, Madurai and Rameshwaram. The aim of the ride was to spread awareness about animal conservation, environmental protection and cleanliness, while also proving that Deaf people can achieve such adventures.
Around 40–50 Deaf riders from Kerala, Bengaluru, Tamil Nadu and Hyderabad applied for the trip. The association conducted interviews and selected only confident riders who had proper licences and bike insurance. Finally, about 30 riders, including four women, joined the journey. The flag-off was done by Shinan PS at 5:30 a.m. in Palakkad, marking the start of an incredible journey.
One of the most inspiring riders was a 66-year-old participant who rode a low-cc bike. He travelled from Thiruvalla to Palakkad and completed the full journey, proving that age is not a barrier. The trip was well arranged, and participants had a positive experience despite a few challenges.
Henry Sunny also supported Deaf businesses by ordering Indian flags from a Deaf women-run sewing unit in Kochi. The women prepared the flags and were paid for their work, promoting unity within the Deaf community. Two volunteers, Gowtham and Akhil Johns, also joined and helped manage the trip smoothly.
When the bikers reached Madurai, the Madurai Deaf Association welcomed them warmly and invited media coverage to spread awareness, especially because Deaf people in Tamil Nadu are still facing challenges in getting driving licences. The public was surprised and inspired to see Deaf bikers travelling such long distances.
Throughout the journey, many associations and families supported the team with funds, food and accommodation. The Kerala Motorcycle Riders Deaf Club provided bike gear, badges and keychains. Special thanks were given to all supporters, including the Madurai Deaf Association, Pandangel supporters, AMDAD Madurai President A.R. Elamaran and General Secretary S. Poornchadran for organising a beautiful welcome and farewell.
Henry Sunny shared his vision to expand such biker tours across North, East and West India. The goal is to create more opportunities for Deaf riders, include more Deaf women and people of all ages, and continue spreading awareness and inclusion.
Kudos to the Deaf community in Kerala for their dedication, unity and inspiring spirit.
