15th January 2025: Determined to spotlight road safety while exploring the vibrant diversity of India, entrepreneur Somit Makar has embarked on an ambitious 10,000+ km solo drive from Delhi to Kanyakumari and back via the Coromandel Coast. This two-month journey is a blend of advocacy and adventure, showcasing India’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural tapestry.

The journey, which began on November 9, 2024, takes him across 11 states, covering 110 cities, 46 cities where he will stop over, like Varanasi, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, and Bengaluru before looping back through Hyderabad and Jabalpur. Driving a Grand Vitara 2023 mild hybrid model, Somit is on a mission to capture over 400 unique experiences, ranging from pristine beaches and lush forests to ancient temples and bustling village fairs. The entrepreneur is especially looking forward to relish 10 experiences namely Dev Deepavali at Varanasi, Sunset at Arichalmunai, Khajuraho Temple Carvings, Pristine Beaches of Puri, Stargazing at Gandikota, New Year’s Dawn Safari at Tadoba, Migratory Birds at Chilka Lake, Chilled out Pondishery Life, Gurudev’s Shantiniketan, and Alipiri Mettu Walk to Tirumala.

“I’ve always believed that every road tells a story, and this journey is about discovering India’s many tales while driving home the importance of safer roads,” says Somit. His expedition is supported by the Centre of Excellence for Road Safety (CoERS) at IIT Madras as the knowledge partner, and Allianz Partners provides roadside assistance, ensuring the drive is as smooth as it is inspiring.

The incredible diversity of India’s terrain and culture is a focal point of Somit’s journey. From the spiritual aura of Varanasi to the architectural wonders of Mahabalipuram, or lovely hill retreat of Araku Valley to the serene beaches of Rameswaram, every stop is an opportunity to delve deeper into the heart of the nation. “Exploring India’s lesser-known gems along the East Coast has been a revelation. These roads not only connect places but also connect us to the soul of the country. Also, India is well-connected now due to a reliable and evolving highways network,” he shares.

Somit’s passion for exploration is matched by his commitment to documenting and sharing his experiences. Through social media updates, he brings real-time insights from his journey, blending travel anecdotes with calls for responsible driving. His posts celebrate the resilience of people in remote areas, spotlight challenges faced on India’s roads and amplify stories of communities embracing safe practices.

This is not Somit’s first long-haul drive. Last year, he completed an 11,000-km solo expedition along the Malabar Coast, which deepened his appreciation for India’s varied landscapes and its evolving road infrastructure. “That journey taught me how much progress we’ve made and how much more we can achieve,” he reflects.

While advocating for road safety remains central to his mission, this drive is as much about inspiring wanderlust as it is about sparking change. By weaving through India’s scenic routes and heritage sites, Somit hopes to encourage others to explore the country while respecting its roads and environment.

India’s road safety challenges—claiming 1.35 million lives annually worldwide—are significant, but initiatives like Somit’s offer hope and inspiration. “The beauty of a journey like this is that it combines adventure with purpose. It’s not just about the miles; it’s about the memories and the message we carry forward,” he concludes.

As Somit continues his odyssey, he invites others to join him virtually and embrace the idea that travel is more than reaching a destination—it’s about the experiences along the way. With every mile he covers, Somit Makar reaffirms the power of one individual to spark a movement for change while celebrating the incredible tapestry of India.