Teen found fame for her heroic bike ride. Where is she now? : NPR

Key Points:

• At age 15 during India's COVID lockdown, Jyoti Kumari gained international fame for cycling over 700 miles with her injured father on the back of her bicycle to return home amid public transport shutdowns.
• Despite promises of financial support, training, and even a movie deal following her heroic journey, most offers of help did not materialize, and the family used collected funds to improve their modest home.
• Kumari's father passed away in 2021, leaving the family in financial hardship, with her mother working as a cook and Kumari balancing household duties while trying to complete her education.
• Kumari remains hopeful for a better future, emphasizing that education is key to overcoming poverty, and she is determined to stay in her native village rather than seeking work in the city.
• Although she still loves cycling, Kumari now cycles only for errands due to household responsibilities, while the family pins hopes on her younger sister’s future educational success to improve their prospects.