Bhubaneswar: Cyclist Bhausaheb Bhawar is pedalling across the country to create awareness on issues including dowry, education, female foeticide and women empowerment.

The 45-year-old cyclist, who started his journey from his hometown in Janla district of Maharashtra in 1993, has covered the country four times and this is his fifth mission. He reached Bhubaneswar four days ago and met a number of people to spread the message.

Bhawar to The Telegraph that he wanted to see an awakened India.

"We have a range of social evils to deal with and I am just making my contribution to make people aware about those. I have met a number of people and hope to have influenced them on these issues," he said.

Bhawar entered the state from Balasore, pedaled through Jaleswar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Paradip, Cuttack and entered Bhubaneswar on May 18. This is his second trip to the state capital after his maiden visit back in 2011, when he was touring the country for the third time.

"I convince people about the need to end the dowry system. It is a daunting task to do, but it needs to be uprooted. I believe that those who demand dowry are mentally sick and need to get treated," Bhawar said.

On Monday, the officials of the State Bank of India felicitated Bhawar for his unique initiative.

"I wanted to meet schoolchildren, but couldn't meet them because of the ongoing summer holiday. I am visiting industries and other such places to meet the people," said Bhawar.

Bhawar has pedalled for nearly 3lakh km and this is the 10th bicycle he is riding.

"As long as I am alive and physically fit, I will continue my campaign," he said.