Meet Sukhma, the 82-Year-Old Haryana Dadi Who Learned to Ride a Bike at 74

A joke from her grandson started it. Now she rides motorcycles, drives tractors and tells the camera she isn’t afraid.

At 82, Sukhma from Sundana village in Rohtak, Haryana, is proving that slowing down is not compulsory. She rides motorcycles and drives tractors with confidence, and she only began learning to ride at 74.

Her story reportedly began with a light-hearted remark from her grandson. It has since reached a wide audience online and struck a chord with people of all ages.

It started as a joke

Her grandson jokingly suggested she learn to ride a motorcycle. Rather than brushing it off because of her age, Sukhma decided to try. With his help, the two reportedly practised quietly at first, keeping the lessons from the rest of the family.

In the early days it was about getting comfortable with the bike, finding her balance and learning to control it. With practice and determination, she built the confidence to ride on her own. What began as a playful challenge turned into a hobby.

From motorcycles to tractors

The bike was only the start. Sukhma then took on driving a tractor, which means getting to grips with different controls, steering and gears. Her story stands out because she chose to pick up new skills at an age when many people are discouraged from trying anything unfamiliar.

An internet favourite

Videos of Sukhma riding and driving have found their way onto social media, where viewers have cheered her confidence and enthusiasm. The Haryanvi phrase “Dar koi na laagda”, meaning “I am not afraid”, sums up the spirit behind her story.

Why her story resonates

Sukhma wasn’t required to learn any of this. She simply wanted to try something new. That is what makes her story meaningful: with encouragement, practice and determination, people can find new interests at any stage of life.

Her experience is also a reminder that growing older doesn’t have to mean giving up curiosity or stepping outside your comfort zone. Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement and the courage to begin.