Watch: Last rites performed on Hyderabad cycling track triggers outrage

Cyclists in Hyderabad were shocked when individuals performed last rites, including tonsuring, on the Rs 100-crore Healthway cycling track. The act, coupled with threats to cyclists, drew public outrage and calls for strict action against the perpetrators

Hyderabad: Amateur cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and bike lovers were left shocked on Wednesday after they witnessed a group of individuals perform rituals related to last rites on the prestigious Rs 100-crore solar-roofed 23-kilometre cycling track in Hyderabad.

The incident has ignited public anger, not just because of the misuse of the public amenity, but because the track, fondly called ‘Healthway’, has become a vital lifeline for scores of health enthusiasts and youngsters.

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For many Hyderabad residents, particularly women and students, the cycling track is a unique sanctuary for fitness and leisure. Just a week ago, a video of a young woman cycling happily on the track late at midnight, an activity that would be unthinkable on many other city roads, went viral across social media platforms.

The unsettling discovery was made by several bike lovers cycling on the track. They spotted the individuals, some of whom were engaged in the ritualistic practice of tonsuring (shaving the head), which is typically performed during funeral rites.

When the cyclists questioned the group regarding the use of the public space for such a ritual, they were met with threats.

An ardent cycling enthusiast, Santhana Selvan (‘Bicycle Mayor of Hyderabad’ on X), posted: “Sincerely upset. Someone performing last (death) rituals in our Hyderabad cycling track. When we asked about it, he threatened that he is close to the CM and he is the Sarpanch in the locality… Requesting the leadership to support and save our world famous, India pride and Hyderabad infrastructure gem. While we try to rise, we are being pulled down and back.”

Cyclists also posted videos showing the individuals participating in the rituals, further substantiating the claims. The incident immediately went viral, drawing widespread condemnation from the public who view the track as a symbol of the city’s modern, health-conscious infrastructure.

The cycling community has urged authorities to take swift and strict action against those who misused the facility and threatened citizens.

Watch:

🌺 ‼️Sincerely upset‼️

Someone performing Last (Death) Rituals in our #HyderabadCyclingTrack!

When we asked about it, he threatened that he is close to CM and he is the sarpanch in the locality. Number plate for identification!

Requesting leadership to support and save our… pic.twitter.com/Ugl3W7rGmX

— Bicycle Mayor of Hyderabad (@sselvan) December 10, 2025