Sampee Chakraborty Purkayastha

People in Kolkata no longer feel surprised to see a young woman in a hijab riding a motorcycle along the city’s busy streets these days. She is known as Alima Rahman, but more popularly known as ‘Hijabi Biker’.

Alima Rahman comes from a middle-class Muslim family. Her determination, perseverance and family support have earned her the identity of a daredevil woman.

Alima’s love for motorcycles began in childhood. Watching her grandfather ride a motorbike sparked her fascination, and her interest gradually turned into a passion. However, she faced problems. In her conservative Muslim family, the idea of a girl riding a bike met with strong opposition from relatives. The notion that “a girl from a purdah-clad (veiled) family riding a motorcycle on the streets” was difficult for many to accept.

Alima Rahman on her bike

However, Alima’s father, Azizur Rahman, was firmly by her side. Instead of suppressing his daughter’s dreams, he offered to train her. Alima began learning to ride at the age of just 10. Handling gears, practising in open and empty grounds, her confidence grew steadily.

Yet societal disapproval continued to trouble her. She had to face taunts, mockery and, at times, deliberate harassment from local men. Every time she stepped out, strangers would hurt uncharitable comments at her. But Alima did not give up. Quietly and with restraint, she kept moving towards her goal. She had only one aim — to learn to ride a bike and to prove that there is no difference between boys and girls.

Today, Alima, now in her twenties, is a familiar face in Kolkata. Clad in Hijab, her regular bike rides have given her a unique identity. She wears her hijab whenever she steps out, and behind that hijab lies the confidence of a strong-willed biker. Once on the road, her eyes remain focused on her destination — nothing distracts her.

Azizur Rahman said, “Naturally, I worry until my daughter returns home. I can’t sleep; I keep pacing outside. But I never wanted to restrict her freedom. A daughter should not be confined.” He believes that with trust and courage, daughters, too, can carve out their own paths.

Alima Rahman

Alima herself repeatedly acknowledges the role of her parents. According to her, one cannot move forward in life by opposing parents. “You have to explain things to them properly and move ahead with mutual understanding. For progress, parents’ blessings are essential,” she said.

Alima’s message regarding bike riding is clear. She feels that many girls are stepping out today, which is undoubtedly positive. However, being mindful of safety is extremely important. She advises avoiding rash driving and reckless overtaking. Alima believes that not only girls, but everyone — boys and girls alike — should follow traffic rules.

Despite riding a motorcycle for many years, she has never faced an accident. According to her, accidents can be avoided by being cautious and following rules. This is the message she wants to spread — that while being on the road, one must look out not only for one’s own safety, but also for the safety of others.

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Today, Hijabi Biker Alima Rahman is not just a motorcyclist; she is a social message. She has proven that faith, culture and dreams can move ahead together.