Say Independence Day and most of us think of it in terms of proudly saluting the nation and using the day-off from work for some much needed rest and additional time with friends and family. For the West Coast Riders Meet (WCRM), an association of motorcyclists comprising over 180 clubs around India, August 15 is more than just another bank holiday. The group, which is hosting a series of bike rides around the city this Independence Day, combines their chosen hobby with a fundraising opportunity for the families of Indian soldiers.

“We provide a donation box at our events, where anyone who is interested can donate whatever they can. It’s a contribution for the families of martyred soldiers, who have experienced great loss,” says organiser Gaurav Rajpurohit. “We are hosting these bike rides at two different locations around Mumbai to honour India’s soldiers as a group. Since August 15 is a day off for many people, the idea is that we can use that time to stand up for the soldiers of our nation, in the true spirit of Independence Day. The Vasai-Virar ride, for example, is only two hours.”