Bhubaneswar: Members of Odisha Bikerni Group on Saturday attempted a unique feat and rode their swanky motorcycles clad in traditional Odissi attire here in a fusion of modernity with tradition.

It was a surprising Saturday for those who witnessed the women hitting the streets. "I have seen women ride motorcycles, but never seen them do that wearing a sari. It was a surprise for me," said Akash Mehra at Master Canteen Square.

The group members, who have recently come into the limelight for their attempts to break societal stereotypes, launched their execrise to spread the message of equality and also to mark the Odia New Year.

The five women who started their tour on Saturday morning from Sikharchandi passed through Kalinga Hospital, Jaydev Vihar, Saheed Nagar, Master Canteen Square, past Sachivalaa Marg and reached Governor House Square before returning to Jaydev Vihar Square.

"We were just hanging out a few days back when the plan cropped up. Our aim was to spread the message of equality and to prove that culture and tradition still exist in modern times," said Barsha Priyambada, a member of the group.

They also held up banners condemning the rapes at Unnao in Uttar Pradesh and Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir that have rocked India in the past week.

"We condemn the rapes in Unnao and Kathua and demand justice for the victims. Our tour today also highlighted these issues that society needs to understand," said Barsha.

Social worker Alok Kar said it was a great attempt on part of the women to spread the message of equality and justice in such a manner.

"We all have the right to live and express our own thoughts. I thanked the girls for their attempt to make society understand the place of women," said Kar.