Reviews & Feedback
A honest review will help us evolve as better film makers.
We need to see your perspective to understand our films better. So go on, don the
critics hat and speak your mind.
Please do mention if you have seen the film at a film festival.
WOAH!!! | |
| Hi Gaurav & Team, Seriously an awesome stuff... :) | |
| Author: Nagendra | Posted: Sep 23, 2008 |
what amazing effort | |
| hi gaurav what an amazing effort i am a biker myself and enjoy making videos and taking pictures i am not a profesional but i can imagine what effot has gone into taking those self shots. my hats off to you also as a biker i must say you got balls to do what you have done. you are good m not gonna use more words coz those who have ever taken a shot or rode a bull already know what a fantastic piece of work you and your team have done. cheers keep ridin safe n goodluck for OCR ranjit deval | |
| Author: ranjit deval | Posted: Sep 6, 2008 |
Awesome !! | |
| Hi Gaurav, I watched yr documentary yesterday and ended with tremendous admiration for you! I must confess I dont get time to relax and watch a movie but there was no backing out of this one. I was overawed by the the whole journey, the music, the mindboggling effort to be a one man show.. and lots more.( Im at a loss of adjs) Im wondering how this trip has made a difference to your life and whether the effects are still existent. It has stirred a lot for me. Thks Farah | |
| Author: Farah | Posted: Aug 31, 2008 |
Milind Sheorey's Bansuri music | |
| Will you be making a DVD of Shri Milind Sheorey's music presentatitions? | |
| Author: DKM Kartha | Posted: Aug 14, 2008 |
very good very good | |
| Excelent documentary you did a very good job. I have a similar Idea in my mind for 2009. If we get to India we will call you. You have a friend in Spain if you like | |
| Author: Emilio Fernandez | Posted: Jun 17, 2008 |
Nice Very nice | |
| Well just got the DVD today in the mail. I opened it and played it in my DVD player wondering what this piece of film was all about. It was such an honest film. I can’t belie what I just saw. Living in the city life tends to revolve around competition and it’s all a big rat race. We tend to forget the core and basics of human nature. This video just reminded me of that. Reminded me how far away from being a human I have become. I am impressed this movie has moved me. I wonder if I will ever be able to do what the film maker has done here. Beautiful. I feel like buying a bike now and head out. | |
| Author: Anindya | Posted: Jun 5, 2008 |
Fantastic journey | |
| Riding Solo is a truly stunning and fascinating piece of cinematography. It has totally inspired my wife and myself to look at our life and reprioritise it. We will buy a Royal Enfield and we will travel to India now, and nothing is going to stop us. When will "One Crazy Idea" be released ? Many thanks to you all for helping us to refocus our lives. Ride free, Nigel & Sue. | |
| Author: Nigel Phillips | Posted: May 25, 2008 |
Lent it to my friend... | |
| I love this movie, it's a mix of adventure and great film making. I have a friend who spends a lot of time in this part of the world and I thought it would be interesting for him to watch. It's obvious I'm not going to get it back, I think he loves it too so I'm buying myself another copy that I'm lending to no one! Great work guys, when's the next movie coming? | |
| Author: Andrew Spencer | Posted: May 15, 2008 |
Amazing Video | |
| I too have a STD 350 and have done Manali - Leh. I could relate to lot of things in the video, Nostaligic now!! Hope to do Marsmik La soon. Ride!!! Naveen | |
| Author: Naveen | Posted: May 6, 2008 |
Fantastico! | |
| Amazing production of a true adventure. Very inspiring, well done! | |
| Author: Alberto | Posted: May 2, 2008 |
Excellent Job Done Kudos to Gaurav Jani | |
| Hello fellow riders and good film seekers, This is very enjoyable film to watch with Gaurav dedication to get his dream and the job done whatever it takes. The film is abundant with beautiful scenery and nice background music taking the viewers to where not many people travel to or will ever see. It was a nice touch for Gaurav to show you sometimes how much work went into getting that special shot all by himself. Thank you Gaurav for giving us this gift of a documentary film to enjoy. Eddie King III | |
| Author: Eddie King III | Posted: Apr 27, 2008 |
Riding Solo... | |
| Hey Folks, the movie was very interesting. Two points; In Europa the NTSC isn't that famous, we use PAL (ok, for PC it's not a problem). The other point, try the language next time a little bit more "Queens English" For non-native-english listeners, it is very hard to understand. God luck Stephan | |
| Author: Stephan Kloecker | Posted: Apr 14, 2008 |
FANTASTIC! | |
| I have little to say. I saw your film for the first time and was so moved that I purchased one for a friend. Months later I ordered two more. Since I have now purchased three copies I can honestly say I have never done so with any other blockbuster (or other) film. Keep doing what you are doing. I can't wait for the next adventure. Cathy | |
| Author: Cathy Eberhardt | Posted: Mar 25, 2008 |
Hats Off | |
| Am basicallly an assistant diirector working on films, learning cinema with all passion and waiting for the day to make my own film with all the things i learnt..i usually think of some concepts on making a documentary or short film and will most of the time sit back without doing it due to lack of production needs or a crew to work for me with the same passion i have but once after seeing "riding solo to the top of the world" i just felt so ashamed of myself for staying away from doing something i love to all because of terms like budget and others but now i got charged up and here i go to make my own things and this time am gonna bother only about wat i want to make it for the screen...Gaurav jani has proved that for a film maker the endless passion and love he has towards the medium can drive him sure to the top of the world.... i just happened to see the film borrowing it from a friend of mine and thats how came to know about dirttrackers and now after seeing the film i really feel like paying the filmakers wat they really deserve....my next stop after sending this mail will be on a dvd store to BUY the dvd... | |
| Author: Pratheep Kumar S | Posted: Mar 19, 2008 |
Congrats to you, Gaurav and your team! | |
| Your journey has been really fantastic - inspirational to say the least. having trekked in the Himalayas and also done a ride in the Himalayan country, one does know what it takes to do what you have done - for that, congratulations. And for encouraging us all, that nothing is impossible, congrats. May you have many more exciting journeys... Sangeetha, Bangalore. | |
| Author: Sangeetha jairam Ghosh | Posted: Feb 27, 2008 |
review - ride to the top of the world | |
| As a rider who has organised my own trips, I (and my pillion and family) thoroughly enjoyed this film and was very impressed with the film makers ability to to produce an interesting, quality log, in the most difficult conditions. Eat your hearts out Charlie and Ewan ( I enjoyed their first one too). | |
| Author: Peter Crockard | Posted: Feb 13, 2008 |
Thanking | |
| I should thank the Solo Rider and the team who finally helped this film to be published. I very well know the hard road he took on his own as being on the Delhi-ladakh road in car I know how hard it was. I once appreciate for this film and shring his unique experience with us and encouraging us to take the road. Regards, On behalf of a group friends who all cherished this film | |
| Author: Karita | Posted: Feb 2, 2008 |
Excellent overall | |
| My wife and I watched the DVD and both enjoyed it very much. Incredible shots, especially considering that he was a "one-man show". He has a good eye for composition and a good feel for an interesting shot. I will have to admit that I'm more of a motorcyclist than a people person, so I enjoyed the first part, about the actual motorcycle trip, more than the latter part, which focussed more on the people he met and their culture. Still, very enjoyable overall, well worth the money. We're looking forward to "One Crazy Ride." Keep up the good work! | |
| Author: Gary Rathbun | Posted: Jan 29, 2008 |
Amazing Adventure! | |
| My wife and I are not surprised you have won such renowned acclaim for your film production. We were captivated by the scenes that were unfolding before our eyes. I bought the DVD because of the lure of a motorcycle adventure that we will never be able to undertake ourselves. Your production is so much more than a motorcycle trip. Thank you Gaurav for the amazing effort you put into taking these images and bringing them to the world. We hope you undertake another adventure so we can travel with you. On a side note, the packaging of the DVD was absolutely outstanding. Bravo! | |
| Author: Jim in Nebraska USA | Posted: Jan 25, 2008 |
Well done! | |
| I wanted to send a quick note to say I thoroughly enjoyed your film. It was excellent! As an avid biker, traveler, and student of world history and cultures, I can fully identify with you for undertaking such a journey as well as wanting to document it to share with others. It was an objective and informative look at a part of world and a group of people very, very few of us will ever see or epxerience firsthand. I also appreciated the "true solo nature" of the trip -- just you, the bike, the gear, a map, and will power. It's very impressive to see someone who adhere to such an admirable ethos. Well done! | |
| Author: Dave Reade | Posted: Jan 21, 2008 |
Blown Away! | |
| Received the DVD quickly and was blown away by the beauty of the Changthang Plateau. Whether you buy the movie because of the motorcycle adventure ride, or because of the intriguing story of the Chang pa nomads, this is one foreign film that you can't miss seeing. No cheesy plot. No third rate actors. Just an honest view into a part of the world I never knew existed. Thanks to all involved in the making of this film. | |
| Author: Soonerfan85 | Posted: Jan 16, 2008 |
Feedback | |
| Excellent film! I thoroughly enjoyed it How did you keep the bike running at those altitudes?? :{) | |
| Author: N N Szombathelyi | Posted: Jan 10, 2008 |
Oklahoma USA | |
| I received the dvd so quick that it surprised me!! Enjoyed it very much and only had a little trouble understanding the spoken English. But then I am from the SOUTH AND LOTS Of AMERICANS TALK FASTER THAN I CAN LISTEN. Also, I have a new Royal Enfield Electra. | |
| Author: Norman Emerson | Posted: Jan 8, 2008 |
Truly Inspiring | |
| I bought this for Christmas. Delivery was fast, efficient and the DVD fantastically packaged. Communication was second to none with immediate personal contact through email to reassure me I would get it on time - thank you very much for this! Having just watched the DVD we were enthralled, inspired and motivated to cram more trips into our lives! We recently 'did' New Zealand and took along our camcorder - being on 2 bikes made filming easier but not always straightforward, which makes the efforts Gaurav to produce this fantastic record of his journey by himself even more unbelievable. But what an effort! - he has captured the true ‘feeling’ of the entire journey, so much so that I, in particular, feel as though I was with him all the way. It makes our record of New Zealand appear mediocre and we want to go back and film it all again! (excuse for another trip maybe!!!) Thank you, thank you Gaurav for sharing all your ups and downs along the miles. A WONDERFULLY PRODUCED DVD AND A TRULY MOVING EXPERIENCE - DO NOT HESITATE TO WATCH THIS IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF SOME INSPIRATION. | |
| Author: Rachel Evans | Posted: Jan 5, 2008 |
HATS OFF TO U BOSS(SUMIT UPPAL) | |
| hi, I dont have words to write about ur unbeatabel ride U should get 100 million dollor from Royal Enfield co. Boss ur gratest. i m driving bullet 350cc(1982) since 6 yrs when i was 18 yrs. i m also member of Royal Enfield club raipur (CENTRAL THUMPERS) I hope we will meet one day. | |
| Author: Sumit Uppal 09926190090 | Posted: Dec 23, 2007 |
Congratulations | |
| I have ordered the DVD and received in within a week. This is one of the best movies about adventure biking. The rider/film maker/narrater Gaurav does a great job. All the footage of him through mountains passes is well done. The interaction with the inhabitants of the regions Champans (is this correct spelling) gives some ideas about the life style of the region. At the end this DVD reminds me what is biking all about, keep it simple and get yourself on your machine and go... Maybe by beeing solo he gets more interaction with the locals and gets to make his own plans for everyday. At the end I believe he got personally much more experience out of this trip by being solo. He took the risk but I am sure it was rewarding. The music on the DVD is also nice. Matches the sprit of the traveling. Regards Burak C. Istanbul Türkiye | |
| Author: Burak C. | Posted: Dec 9, 2007 |
Review by Ed Youngblood | |
| Gaurav Jani at first conceived of a video about five bikers on a romantic, two-year tour of the vast and varied landscape of his native India. He found no one interested in funding such a project, so he resolved to do something on his own, riding solo into the Himalayas to disputed territory on the edge of the Chinese border. His choice of motorcycle – his own 5-year-old 350cc Enfield – was also dictated by his non-existent budget. However, as his long adventure unfolds, he realizes it was the right choice. He explains that the project was not about “… speed, movement or passing by,” but about “stillness and knowing Indians and India.” Outfitted with the bare essentials, his cameras, and custom-built brackets made to carry the additional fuel that would be required over the remote, mountainous region, the little Enfield grew in weight to nearly 600 pounds! Such a small, overloaded motorcycle would be a great test for rider and machine under normal riding conditions, but there were times in the 18,000 foot mountain passes where the little single starved so much for oxygen that Jani had to get off and walk along beside it. More than once he suffered dangerously from exhaustion, poor nutrition, and altitude sickness. At one point he became lost and huddled overnight in his non-insulated tent as the temperature plunged below freezing. This trek alone would be a remarkable feat for any adventure motorcyclist, but when we consider that Jani documented it beautifully and in great detail with no film crew, no additional support, no safety net, it seems almost impossible. The vistas in this film are quite breathtaking. Time and again, Jani climbs a thousand feet up a steep mountain slope to get just the right erspective on a vast plain or a winding mountain road, positions his camera, turns it on, climbs back down to make two or three passes with his motorcycle, then climbs back up the mountain to retrieve his camera. His perseverance and dedication to the task are quite Jani in desertastonishing, and the cinematic results are remarkable. There is only one shot in the DVD - taken by a television news channel - where Jani did not handle the camera. On the high and desolate plateau of the Changthang region, he comes upon the Chang pas, nomadic herders whose wealth is their goats and who can load everything they own on the backs of a yak and a couple of horses, and move an entire village to a new grazing area overnight. As bare-bones as Jani's adventure seems, the Chang pas teach him – and us - new definitions for economy, resilience, stamina, and environmental living. They leave even less a footprint on the land than the goats they herd. At one point Jani decides to accompany two teenage girls as they take the herd to a field across a couple of mountain ranges. They literally walk him into the ground, and he has to sit and rest, then return to their village as they disappear over the horizon. The Chang pas take Jani in and treat him as a member of the family. They are a good-natured people, and being Buddhists, do not seem to experience the burning material needs of Western society. Indeed the film switches from an adventure travelogue to an anthropological study of how a people can live in harmony with, but totally vulnerable to nature, apparently with satisfaction and gratitude. As I watched this part of the documentary, inexplicably the lyrics of John Mellencamp's “Pink Houses” popped into my head: Well there's people and more people What do they know know know Go to work in some high rise And vacation down at the Gulf of Mexico Then I realized this was not just some random loss of concentration. It was quite relevant to the message of Jani's documentary. We in the West really believe we have learned the best way to live and that our environmental destruction is a temporary danger that we will eventually overcome with our technology.Jani with Chungpas We believe our culture is superior, and we place great stock in terms like “super power.” In the mean time, not only do we desperately work, but we desperately play, building as much expense, stress, planning, and consumption into our recreation as we do in the daily grind we call “work.” The Chang pas, living simply, seem to make no distinction between work and play, and survival of the clan is enough to bring them satisfaction. And they probably don't give one moment's thought to whether they have discovered “the” way to live. This is a profound and moving documentary that has won several international awards. I recommend it not just to anyone who enjoys motorcycle adventure, but also to those who worry about the way we live. Ed Youngblood http://www.motohistory.net | |
| Author: Ed Youngblood | Posted: Nov 14, 2007 |
Beoynd the Bike | |
| I was attracted to your DVD by the common two-wheeled thread: I own two Royal Enfield motorcycles, a 500CC Bullet Sixty-5 and a 350cc Bullet Classic. I was awestruck by the sheer beauty of India... to ride the Himalayas would be incredible and I endeavor to do it myself. The current running underneath the story of a scenic, adventurous ride hit very close to home for me. I could relate to the voyage of self-discovery. Interesting, most movies depict the struggles of one of three things: man vs. man man vs. nature man vs. machine In Riding Solo we get man teaming up with machine vs. nature and himself. Great story.... looking foward to One Crazy Ride. Ride Safe, -Jason | |
| Author: Jason Northam | Posted: Nov 12, 2007 |
Your DVD is one to recommend | |
| Your DVD is one to recommend I’m a member of the Long Way Down website which followed Chaley Boorman and Ewan McGregor from the North of Scotland to the southernmost tip of Africa, the subject came up about books and DVDs, I had no hesitation in recommending your DVD. I got one for my self and one for my cousin who is also into bikes. You deserve every success! Kenneth G. Scotland | |
| Author: Kenneth Gauld | Posted: Nov 11, 2007 |
Review by Miles Davis | |
| Riding Solo to the Top of the World is Gaurav Jani's true Himalayan saga, a genuine and heroic journey proving a pilgrim's willingness to risk his life in the ultimate search for spirit. As demonstrated in the Upanishads, spirit triumphs always above matter, and without a very large dose of sheer spiritual faith, this movie could not have been made. IT is not a triumph of man over man over Nature, but the opposite, a triumph of spirit over matter for what but spirit could cause a moto-pilgrim to ascend on such a journey? Jani is an Enfield yatri searching for his position in the Universe; his heritage and birthright; as well as sanatan dharma in the Absolute Truth. This is a ride to the most remote areas on earth. I suspect that it is only Chapter One in a long series of future documentaries on the unfolding of the true secrets of life to which the pilgrim is heir. Just as the yoga of genuine Himalayan mystics is not for the armchair and remote control yogis of today's big cities of the West, so Gaurav's journey is not for the mere Sunday rider. With apologies to Pirsig, in Jani's grand epic of self-discovery, this brahmana-born, moto-tapasvi rewrites the meaning of dhyana (zen) in the art of motorcycle pilgrimage. And fortunately, Jani's trusty 350cc, 18 hp, single lung Bullet, a brand so exalted among moto-marques, proves every inch---or millimeter---up to the task (as his bike and he have for years) along this Great Land of King Bharata's other remote frontiers. What we learn from Jani's work is---as the Niti Shastras of Brihaspati advise---"He who wishes to drink must dig a well. So he who wishes to... find the heights of sacred mountains or the depth of the soul... must put forth the required effort." Thirty-five years ago I pilgrimaged in the Himalayas simply because Lord Krishna identifies these peaks in His Gita as "representing Him among all of the Earth's 'immovable' things." I have camped with the yogis and mahatmas there, for among the great yogis I found many admirer of my Guru Maharaja. In the peaks of not only Uttaranchal like Yamunottari and Uttarakashi and other area below Bandarpunch, I traveled at a height a full mile lower than the roads Gaurav takes us over. Perhaps my own experiences can help me understand what substance it took to create Jani's unique contribution to cine-art and culture. If I can begin to understand the austerity and hardships of life at 17,000 feet, then it is my duty to urge everyone to see this film, for the producer-director-star of the film risked his life in making it.. In creating Riding Solo to the Top of the World Gaurav Jani does not approach these Kings of the Mountain Ranges of the Earth as a great conqueror, but as a disciple, a seeker, a sage. This film takes the world on a trip that has never been taken before; a one-man journey of discovery to the highest motorable road in the world. Miles Davis Journalist and author: Motorcycle Yoga, What Is Your Rashi, Shri Pushpanjali, Vraja Mandala Darshan, Horoscope for Disaster, Chanakya Niti-shastra, Bharat Darshan, Astrology of Brighu,etc. | |
| Author: Miles Davis | Posted: Nov 11, 2007 |
Riding solo review | |
| Very nicely done. His contact with the local people was very interseting and enlightening. It made the movie more than just a motorcycle dvd. I also must note that here in the USA we have this mentality that bigger is better. I was impressed by the ruggedness and simplicity of his bike. I'll bet that trip would kill a Harley. I wish we could get bikes like that here. Inexpensive, rugged and practical. Paul Whallon Euharlee, GA | |
| Author: Paul Whallon | Posted: Oct 21, 2007 |
Excellent movie with lots of hard work | |
| This movie was really great. I've been to the area myself and i know how hard it is to just walk and here is a guy putting up a camera, doing the driving and then coming back to pick up the camera, is unbelievable. Great work. Its a must see for everyone who loves travelling. | |
| Author: Dr Nitin Pandey | Posted: Oct 15, 2007 |
Fantastic show Gaurav! | |
| I was initially sceptical but then thought what the heck and ordered a copy. I was bowled over in the first 5 minutes :-) Great show Gaurav!!! I was really moved by the film. Having been a biker myself, the film has reignited the spark in me. I'll definitely spread the word around. Cheers!!! Anjan | |
| Author: Anjan | Posted: Oct 12, 2007 |
Shipping X-tra fast ! | |
| Thanks for sending the DVD so quickly. 7 days from India to Europa is everything but slow ! The DVD ist fantastic, please produce more of such stuff !! Cheers from Germany Markus | |
| Author: Markus | Posted: Oct 9, 2007 |
Fantastic! | |
| What a fantastic film! The adventure is fabulous, it is so well filmed and narrated.. just the sort of understated commentary that emphasises the journey, the scenery and the depth of humanity of the encounters.. Thank you so much! Oh, and I received the DVD very promptly and it was very well packaged (I wish all DVDs and CDs would be posted with such a good packaging!) I am now ordering my second DVD: I gave the first one to my bike instructor to thank him for all his efforts.. he is planning to travel from India back to the UK on a Royal Enfield.. Bruno | |
| Author: Bruno Tran | Posted: Sep 8, 2007 |
BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING | |
| 'BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING' and that was just the service. Ordered from India and delivered to the UK in days. Well not just the service: The achievement was. 'BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING.' The scenery was, ' BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING.' The people encountered, 'BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING.' A sort of all round, 'BREATHTAKING AND iNSPIRING' film. Many thanks. A DVD I will watch over and over again. | |
| Author: David Owen Davies. | Posted: Aug 31, 2007 |
superb and moving film | |
| Just finished watching the film and was very moved by what I saw. The camera shots were amazing especially when you take into account Gaurav had to do everything by himself. He captured on film how he was feeling and shared it with the viewer. I cannot really express how much I enjoyed watching the film and can only recommend that you buy the DVD and experience the journey and see the superb scenery of that part of India. | |
| Author: Bob from the UK | Posted: Aug 18, 2007 |
Congratulations! | |
| Congratulations to Gaurav and others associated with Riding Solo... for winning the prestigious National Film Award. Here's wishing you all the luck... | |
| Author: Tarak Rindani | Posted: Aug 9, 2007 |
A thought......not a review! | |
| Watching ‘Riding Solo to the top of the world’ by Gaurav Jani was an awesome experience. Such a lyrical blend of an adventure for survival, simplicity of the wild, a yearning for happiness and an ache for faith…faith in possibility! The profound secrets of life unravel to not the most intelligent but to the most aware…and to the most demanding. It had to be an unyielding urge of a spirit at its alivest, to have conceived and then accomplished a journey of such proportion, not just in its physical defiance but in its philosophical vigor too. Somehow the whole idea of technical expertise becomes only functional to the mammoth journey. I can’t put my finger on that precise moment when the quest…a plain bike ride undertaken by a man responding to his passion turned into an insightful work of spirituality and human endeavor. No, it’s not just about the man who undertook the journey but also about the people and places he met on his sojourn. It’s about the simple man whose heart found happiness as it endured the cold breeze on the open grasslands, engulfed in the naked hills. …the woman who churned butter in sheep skin, the children who pushed each other to pose in front of the camera, the infinite expanse of land, tranquil in contemplation around the triumphant mountains and the man who incredibly melted into it all, piece by piece. There are moments in life when I fear…I fear the death of life. Life that I feel only once in a while, that massive calling to let go, to fly despite myself…that need to be the violence in the sea, the submission in the grasses, the craving to crack with the earth and to stretch like the blankness of the sky……the hunger to belong to the enormity within me. It is always a few steps away and yet somehow that walk is only as rare as accepted moments of total emptiness within….infrequently acknowledged times of total lack of control. It’s when I have nothing that I can hang on to…..when I give up, that I take that little sprint to the true me. Strange isn’t it? The vacant lure of our weaknesses overwhelms our moments of strength so much that what we tend to call as balance, success & happiness, ironically, are just another by-lanes to exhaustion of spirit…..of life. We hardly ever recognize it, let alone admit it. But when you see simple folks sitting in the middle of nowhere chanting for rain…and their easy smiles when the rains oblige…you stand stunned in admiration of that single bond between the life within these perishable strands of flesh and bones and without them…..faith. Somewhere in the circus of sheltered subsistence, we have lost the simplicity of faith. The arrogant sense of achievement which protects us in our supercilious concrete jungles is unceremoniously crushed down to a thousand pieces, when our heads bow down in front of the greatness we have failed to retain. But the loss is much more severe. How about not being able to use an inexhaustible source of spiritual power that is all along ours, and yet so inaccessible? When did this happen? When did we decide to accept a scanty piece of ourselves as the whole? And when did the greatness that was actually us, vanish with the tapering forests, drying rivers and rising oceans? When did the intrinsic constituent of our existence turn into a dumping ground for emotional and material waste? When did we diminish in front of our own creation? It’s not even sad any more. The misery now peeks out only in the intellectual verbiage that we launch to fill up our evening booze sessions with friends. While that clean world…...‘our’ world is scurrying so far-away from civilization, it takes a tough bike ride of 50 days along thousands of kilometers to reach there…..to connect with it and to comprehend its real-ness. It is perhaps inevitable that we should be where we are. Perhaps, an end is the only solution. On the other hand though, for people who propel themselves for such an experience and for people who watch its narration and are deeply shaken out of their slumber…may be…..there is hope….may be there is an alternative to the end…may be there is a scope for rebuilding! | |
| Author: Kunjan Mendke | Posted: Aug 7, 2007 |
A Tale of incredible journey | |
| This isnt a review, as I would be doing a gross injustice if I were to call this one..no words can completely describe Gaurav Jani,loner(His 350cc Enfield) and their 5000KM odyssey, a incredible journey of a lone biker who had set out to conquer the flats of Changthang plateau in Ladakh, but how, after two months with resplendent nature and the champa community, its not the Changthang plateau which he conquered but himself.. This chronicle starts with Delhi and leads you through a virtual tour of wilderness of one of the most remote places in India. What follows is a splendid tale of Champa community in the back drop of some stunning scenery, a confluence that will leave you spell bound. What makes it even more special is the fact that the whole thing is a one man show..Gaurav not only rode alone through the 5000KM journey but also directed, scripted, narrated and filmed the entire adventure all by himself. Starting from Delhi, Gaurav takes the scenic route of Delhi- Manali to reach Manali then to Leh. Changthang is a plateau between the Karakoram and the Himalayan range. From Leh he travels to northen most tip of Changthang called Datta and from there along the Pangong Tso lake to Chusul. From Chusul to Rongo and then to Hanle to Chumur which is the southern most tip of Changthang and from Chumur back to Delhi to complete the journey. Apart from the incredible beauty of above mentioned places that you get to see, Gaurav has also filmed the Hemis Festival which happens once is 12 years, Hanle prayer festival and the Chumur monastry(which has a mummified Lama and severed hands of a women who using her charm was responsible for death of 7 Lamas) all of which form a amazing footage which you dont get to see very often. In short, its an really wonderful documentary. Its not just about Gaurav or his bike or about his incredible journey, its about the splendid beauty of Nature, its people and their lifestyle, their culture and spirituality. Its about the heaven on earth called Changthang. A must watch for all who love travel. | |
| Author: Prashant | Posted: Jul 17, 2007 |
not just a review | |
| This is not a review of the documentary. Having been through a similar solo experience, and as a rider who plans to ride in Ladakh sometime, this documentary did touch some chords. The recording of a journey has always been a source of internal debate for all travelers from Marco Polo to Hueng Tsang to Gaurav Jani to Shiva Narayanaswamy. Every traveler will agree even before attempting, that no journey can be captured and transmitted in its entirety to someone. But every traveler would also consider it his duty to transmit, through some medium, an essence of the journey, purely for inspiring. I had an intense internal debate before I went on my journey, and decieded not to take a camera, or write directly about it. My intention was to experience, and shape the journey purely based on my naked self. A camera-toting self on the bike, or a microphone-toting self on the bike, would have a very different experience from just me on the bike. A camera or a microphone alters a situation dramatically. Instead I have been relying solely on the age old technique of story telling as the only medium of post-journey communication. My reach is very limited, but I would like to think I am as close to a wholesome transmission of my experience as I can get! That does not mean I advocate throwing away all external recording devices. Journeys need to be recorded and transmitted, in the hope that a glimpse of one facet of this universe as seen by the traveler will hold some meaning for a fraction of those who see it. Though I cringed every time I saw the camera in my mind while watching Gaurav’s journey, I have to say this is one of the most tastefully and unobtrusively recorded journeys I have seen/heard about. I shall remember Gaurav when I am standing on the Changthang plains in Ladakh. | |
| Author: Shiva | Posted: Jul 17, 2007 |
Absolutely Outstanding!! | |
| There are travel documentaries and then there is Riding Solo... The film stands out from the crowd. I have lost the count of how many times i have watched this DVD. The entire treatment of the film is so human... these days most of the stuff you watch looks the same but riding solo is different... and it's worth every penny spent on buying a copy of the DVD. I would like to congratulate every person behind this film... Gaurav you are one amazing guy and a super director. The visuals in the film are a treat to the eyes! Rajiv & Sankalp... the editing is crisp and i was hooked on to the screen for full 94 minutes!! great job! The commentary was real and i could relate to it... Ved Nair, Dwarak Warrier, Milind Sheorey, Pinkoo Joseph.... awesome music!!! The flute, the guitar is so simple that it haunts in my mind... a big hug to all of you for coming out with such great soundtrack! Kudos to everyone else! Eagerly awaiting the DVD of One Crazy Ride... Amit Tyagi Antwerp, Belgium | |
| Author: Amit Tyagi | Posted: Jul 17, 2007 |
Amazing ride to Chanthang!!! | |
| Hi Gaurav I saw your DVD last weekend. I just wanna say, Man its an incredible job and not everyone's piece of cake. My Mom and Dad were also watching the video and they were really impressed by the way you have covered the entire ride. We all were amazed to see the rainfall after 3 days of prayers. You were right that you witnessed a miracle. Its so hard to ride and walk at certain places in Ladakh coz of thin air and you were setting up the focus of the camera at the hill-top. Really nice job. I never knew that we still have tribes like chagpas existing in the country. Keep up the great work. | |
| Author: Rohit Sharma | Posted: Jul 16, 2007 |
Where no man has gone before....!!! Sounds fimiliar? | |
| BRAVO!!! Gaurav! Your quest for adventure brings pride for the Nation. I am glad to know that we are still left with some brave-hearts to explore the places which are yet to be put on the world map. Keep up the good work. | |
| Author: Vikas Singh | Posted: Jul 13, 2007 |
Awesome!!! | |
| Hi Gaurav: I happen to watch yr docu on 30th June, 07...the day my wife got it for me from India. I must thank Manoj for making sure that it gets on board with her...Appreciate yr help, Manoj!!! Coming back to the docu, I knew it frm the very begining that I am gonna love it...and it for sure was above my expectations...It speaks about the three most sought after "D"s in life...Dedication, devotion and determination and is a great source of motivation... I had never heard about Chang Pas...Hemis festival...the only festivals I ever knew before this were Holi, Diwali and Eid, when we got a day off frm school/work...The word "faith" for all its worth has been so well captured and potrayed in yr work, its just too true to believe...One more thing that caught my attention was the optimum use of resources by the "Tsanams" over that lunch...The pressure cooker was missing the whistle and they just plugged it with a piece of wood, which just served the purpose so well...So much to learn... Way to go...I eagerly look forward to "One Crazy Ride" and hope to ride with you some day...Till then, Safe riding and happy trails... D'raj | |
| Author: Dheeraj Anand | Posted: Jul 3, 2007 |
would also love to see some more | |
| hey Gaurav Hi i am from ahmedabad from the old city are i always dreamed about the adventure which you did and was inspired by the work a lot mr asutosh bhatt have told a lot about you and i am really curious to see you in personal i am no more words to say about a film it is mind blowing job. thanks raheel patel director www.designdialogue.net | |
| Author: raheel www.design dialogue.net | Posted: Jun 27, 2007 |
Riding Solo To The Top Of The World | |
| Buy it now. You really must see it to believe it. Humbling. | |
| Author: Bill Powell | Posted: May 31, 2007 |
Grt going ahmedabadi..... | |
| hey I have yet not got a chance to see the DVD but ya the trailer itself is so exiting that I can put in words. Its a great work and very inspiring........wish to see the DVD soon and see you too. best luck | |
| Author: avinash | Posted: May 20, 2007 |
Thanks for the Chicken | |
| G, the chicken was awesome. Thanks. I already need more red chutney salt. I really need to come to India and learn to cook. You are a very inspirational guy. Love your brother. Thanks again, Matt | |
| Author: Matthew Haley | Posted: May 17, 2007 |
To: Gaurav Jani | |
| Dear Gaurav, My husband Tom and myself just returned from watching your wonderful documentary at Del Tech Community College in Georgetown, Delaware. This is the first documentary I've ever seen. My curiosity has been sparked to view more, but I doubt I'll ever enjoy them more than yours' tonight! Both of us are patients of your brother Uday and have been ever since he worked with Dr. Palekar. We are so pleased he opened his own practice. We attended your presentation tonight because of him. Even though we had not met you until this evening, we felt a special connection. My husband thoroughly enjoyed seeing your bike. He almost bought the same bike you own but ended up with a "Norton" which he still owns. We purchased your CD, (which you signed), and plan to lend to our friends so they can enjoy as well. We are looking forward to "One Crazy Ride". Thank you so much for making this experience special to us. You were so gracious in answering all the audiences questions after the showing - you made our evening "personal" just as you did with your documentary. All the best to you with future documentaries! | |
| Author: Phyllis and Tom Fluharty | Posted: May 16, 2007 |
Review | |
| Riding Solo to the Top of the World" is a remarkable, awe-inspiring film from Indian filmmaker and, in this case, one-man filmmaking team Gaurav Jani. Setting off alone on his Enfield motorcycle, Jani braved temperatures and terrain that is unfit for walking or biking as he took his motorbike on a journey across an India that very few of us will ever know. From the city streets of Bombay to the icy, mountainous Changthang Plateau on the Chinese border, Jani doesn't so much make a film as he does inhabit it. You will see far more technically proficient films than "Riding Solo to the Top of the World," but you're not going to see too many films with the heart, inspiration and jaw-dropping gutsiness as this one. Along the way, Jani befriends the isolated Chang Pa nomads and, in a rather stunning accomplishment, manages to film inside the Chumur Monastery. Film connoisseurs who embrace daring and innovative filmmaking will marvel at Jani's dedication to the craft and ingenuity in the face of insurmountable odds. Capturing the beauty and wonder of the magnificent nation of India, Gaurav Jani's "Riding Solo to the Top of the World" is, for filmmaker and audience, an unforgettable journey. Richard | |
| Author: Richard P, Indiana US | Posted: May 10, 2007 |
Riding Solo | |
| I'm a fan of documentary films, especially mountain culture films and motorcycle films. While watching Riding Solo, I found myself thinking several things: 1) I want Gaurav Jani to make more films. I enjoyed his honest approach to film making. It wasn't an egomaniac blasting through the world on a conquest, it was a guy who had an idea and went with it. No chase vehicles/huge sponsorship responsibilities, no tantrums because KTM wouldn't give him 3 motorcycles (Charlie Boorman in Long Way Round) Just a guy on the bike he owns, using the equipment he has at hand. 2) As he rode through the countryside and cities, I wanted to see more about riding in India, sort of like Terra Circa or Mondo Enduro. A travelogue of the cultures, the machines, the breakdowns and roadside fixes, traveling in such an exotic place, the ride participants, how they eat/sleep/clean up/take care of the daily chores of motorcycle travel in India. I truly enjoyed Riding Solo and the cultural aspects of the Chang Pa. I admire their lifestyle. I just wanted more of the road story. 3) And a final thought, Riding Solo should be entered in the Banff Mountain Film Festival. I think it would place well in the mountain culture catagory. I've taken in the film fest's world tour for the past 10 years or so and Riding Solo is as good as any of the films I've seen exhibited. I'm waiting for the release of One Crazy Ride with great anticipation. I heard about Riding Solo through my riding friends and ordered it. We were all inspired by the movie. | |
| Author: John R Herman | Posted: May 6, 2007 |
Awsome film | |
| Gaurav, It is surprising that you were not aware of the screening at the Goa International Film Festival for Documentary, Short and Animation Films held at the Kala Accademy. Fortunately, the synopsis booklet had your email id so that we could get in touch with you. It is a pleasure to have the director / producer at such screenings as the viewers can have a beneficial inter-action with the creator of the film. It is more so when films like ‘ The solo..’ as they are made facing daunting challenges- both natural and physical. The screening of your film was given the prestigious end-film slot in the festival. It was a working day, 5.30 pm but there was a good attendance . The viewers gave a loud ovation of appreciation at the end. The photography of the film is so beautiful. It brought back the memories of the fasinating landscape and colours one sees only in Laddakh. We have been there and cherish the travels and the dream-scapes memories. Of course, ours was a pleasure trip… nothing to compare with the places you have been to and experianced. Great work ! We feel that your inspiring film should be seen by the youth. It may encourage and kindle some new thoughts. If you happen to be in Goa on work or holiday, we would like to organize such a screening with your participation ? | |
| Author: Arun & Alka Patil | Posted: May 4, 2007 |
Riding Solo.... | |
| I knew who Garav Jani was, I knew quite a lot about 60 kph. I knew everything about OCR. A friend of mine had a copy of the dvd and I borrowed it. My laptop would not play it properly from the dvd drive, so I downloaded it and then played the movie. Perfect! But illegal. Me and my wife (she rides with me on my bike on tours) were mesmerised and enthralled.....this movie took us to the top of the world and way beyond. Nomadic life styles of the Chang pas in such harsh living conditions was the major high light of the movie. The best scene for me? Gaurav Jani playing the school teacher! That was hilarious. It was nice for me to study the road conditions Manali to Leh, as I and my wife are committed to ride to Leh 30 June to 21 July, 2007. We have seen this movie 3 times over and will watch more. I have ordered a copy of the dvd from Dipesh Shah, via Orkut!! Reading the reviews of the movie from viewers from abroad in print n on U tube made us all feel doubly proud for Gaurav n his post production team. Helmets off to him n 60 kph.com Captain Nandu Chitnis, Master Mariner BikeNomads.com | |
| Author: Commander Nandu Chitnis, IN (R | Posted: May 1, 2007 |
Riding Solo to the Top of the World | |
| > Has anyone on the list heard of, or better yet, seen this? > > http://www.dirttrackproductions.com/trailers/ridingsolo/index.html > > A guy on a 350, with a claimed 300kg of gear(!) riding from Mumbai > > through some of the highest traversable areas in the Himalayas. > > One rider, no support.. <><><><><><><><><> <><><><><><><><><> After getting the above post on the KLR motorcycle list about a month ago I decided to order a copy of the DVD, Riding Solo to the Top of the World. Cost was about $27 delivered with an expected arrival of 7-10 days after ordering. It actually took 22 days and my communication with Manoj of Dirt Track Productions starting on day 21 were promptly and reasonably answered. My copy arrived in the mail on day 22 after shipping a replacement copy had been arranged only hours earlier. I quickly canceled the need for the replacement. Last night I finally watched the entire DVD. Someone on the list posted about how this DVD was more about the country and people than about motorcycle riding. I'd agree with them but that in no way detracted from the adventure or interest I found in the production. The photography was in most cases excellent and the adventure, well, Steve Rankin and I had a good adventure on De Tour (see http://70.60.188.86/de_tour.htm ) and a fine adventure on the Great Divide Ride. This production documents an Extraordinary adventure in some rugged, remote and desolate areas. The interaction between the rider and the people and conditions is well documented and adds a bit of unique flavor to this production. I had trouble understanding some of the dialogue as there is a bit of an accent involved. Subtitles are included for some dialogue and were very helpful. But that gives me one more reason to watch it again. I know the second time will be even better than the first. I think a KLR would be a fine mount for this ride although I don't know if I'd be up to living at 15,000-18,000 feet for very long. I know I would be very wary of taking a solo ride like this on a 350cc street bike. But it does show again that riding slowly can allow you to take just about anything anywhere. I would recommend this film to folks for the adventure and introduction to an area we'll probably never visit. A culture we'll probably never experience and a people we'll probably never meet. Best, Jeff Saline ABC # 4412 South Dakota Airmarshal Airheads Beemer Club www.airheads.org The Beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota 75 R90/6, 03 KLR650, 79 R100RT | |
| Author: Jeff Saline | Posted: Apr 24, 2007 |
WomensRidingSchool Review | |
| Riding Solo to the Top of the World, a film by Gaurav Jani, takes you to some of the most remote places in India as you see the world from Jani's simply packed 350cc Royal Enfield. Allow Jani to whisk you away to the Changthang Plateau, an area of the Himalayas where you will see him cross the world's highest pass - over 18,500 feet in elevation. Jani's goal is the Chinese border where the Changpa, a small nomadic tribal community of goat herders dwell. This is a magical story of adventure and of finding ones self. What appeared on the outside to be just another motorcycle documentary unfolds quickly into a colorful story of a man, a motorcycle and of a beautiful landscape - filled with all things wonderful. Jani's sense of self makes you comfortable from the start, the pictorial landscapes and ride adventure keeps you captivated and as Jani makes friends in the most unlikely places, you too will find salvation at the Top of The World. | |
| Author: Judy Mirro | Posted: Apr 13, 2007 |
Real Rider | |
Should I begin by saying that its was exciting to watch the DVD , dont remember how many times, Everytime it feels like following Gaurav entirely through his journey, A true visuals of grit and determination. Amazing !! Best Wishes | |
| Author: Ranjit Vadakkan | Posted: Apr 9, 2007 |
Riding solo | |
| The awards are well deserved. When you have a showing in LA I will gather my riding buddies and we will truly enjoy the big screen experience. | |
| Author: Martin Sechrist, (via Damian) | Posted: Apr 6, 2007 |
Truly Special | |
| We watched this movie having heard very little about it and not knowing what to expect. Not being particular motorcycle enthusiasts, we questioned whether we would find this movie appealing...that question was answered after watching the film! Bravo! This picture is a true celebration of the documentary. What a wonderful journey Gaurav shares with us in this moving film. The fact that he shot the entire movie himself is truly mind boggling. Although we enjoyed watching the DVD, we would love the opportunity to view this film on the big screen! Gaurav, bring your film to the Rehoboth Beach film festival! | |
| Author: Kevin and Elissa, Lewes DE | Posted: Apr 5, 2007 |
Congratulations! | |
| This is a truly inspiring film in every sense. The adventure immediately becomes a personal experience in which one shares every moment of Gaurav's journey, both on the physical and spiritual level. The photography, production and soundtrack music all add to what becomes an unforgetable experience. | |
| Author: Tony Bayfield, United Kingdom | Posted: Apr 2, 2007 |
Moving and inspiring | |
| This film is a work of art. From the opening minutes where we see and hear that beautiful Enfield rumbling out of Delhi, to the final moments after Gaurav's departure from the Changpa people in the sweeping panorama of the Changthang Plateau, this film contains imagery, stories, people and places that are simply amazing. To have been able to witness Gaurav's personal journey through this land and among it's peoples is a special privilege, but even moreso because of the rare access to the region afforded to any outsiders. These nomads living in the highest regions of our planet are unique in so many ways, and Gaurav has managed to not only provide the rest of us with a beautifully painted portrait of their lives, beliefs and customs, but he himself was able to connect in a personal way with them that deeply changed him. Those personal revelations and connections are what make this film deeply special - far beyond what any National Geographic team could have accomplished. One man, one camera and a thousand words to paint the picture of this life-altering personal journey. Truly inspiring with beautiful images and thoughtful stories that won't soon be forgotten. Superbly done Gaurav! P.S. Thanks to Dirt Track as well. Shipping was fast (2 weeks from India to Canada) and very well packaged. Thank you! | |
| Author: Richard Pearce, Edmonton, CAN | Posted: Mar 19, 2007 |
Royal Enfield Lovefest | |
| The effort that must have gone into this film is really very awe-inspiring. One often hears of epic motorcycle journeys, some more remarkable than this. But no others have been as carefully and lovingly recorded as this. It seems as though you can follow the film maker's journey to self-realization. When you discover what this journey means, he is as surprised as you are. Yeah, every road film says that the journey didn't turn out at all as expected and that they learned so much more about the world, but, gosh, you really believe this guy. You don't see or hear as much about the bike as I would have liked. It seems to mean more to him than he's ready to say. I think that would have added another dimension to the film. Truly heart warming, though, and very well filmed. | |
| Author: Eric | Posted: Mar 9, 2007 |
Wow! | |
| I have been planning to travel and shoot (solo, with a pal) since last year. So when I came across this DVD, I decided to check it out; to get a reference to what the standards of such a film might be. I wasn't expecting much. I was blown away in about 30 minutes of RIDING SOLO TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD. I was sure I was seeing something unique and by somebody who revered film-making as well. Before watching the film, I thought the film would be a patch on the trip or the other way round. I didn't expect that anyone to be so honest about filming that he would leave his camera under the care of the gods while shooting himself on the road or travel to places, where breathing was difficult and yet think of filming honestly. It would be impossible to shoot the film without trusting god (here I mean nature). What on earth made him stay at those places? What told him that he wouldn't be frozen to death or blow away by the winds, eaten by an animal, lost in wilderness? How did he not have a breakdown. That was unbelievable. Inspiring. Gaurav might not have handled professional equipment before, but he knew all about it. I loved many of the frames. I am thankful for what I got to see. What I did not like about the film, the script (language) and the editing. I could guess many of the sentences much before they were completed. The language wasn't contemporary and is about 30 years old. The editing too could have been better. But it doesn't affect the film that much. Because the content is brilliant. Keep it up. Keep making such (inspiring and honest) films. | |
| Author: John Lucius | Posted: Mar 4, 2007 |
Fantastic | |
| Hey Gaurav, An absolutely fantastic documentary i have ever seen.. I have been to Ladhak myself last year..But then my experience there was what each tourist has.. I saw what everyone who visits there sees.. But your documentary showed the real Ladhak..The real people of the land..Their real lifestyle and culture..It has given an insight into the actualy life and people of the land..thanks a lot for that.. As for making the documnetary, hats off to you boss.. I dont know how you must have managed it..Its impossible for me to think off.But then you have done it..an absolutely wonderful job.. One more thing, after watching the documentary i am even more inpired to go to Ladakh again.. And surely on a bike trip the next time.. Thanks a lot for the wonderful experience i got watching your documentary..And best of luck for your future documentaries.. Waiting to see the next edition.. Best Regards | |
| Author: Gargi | Posted: Mar 3, 2007 |
Phenomenal! | |
| I could not have imagined the beauty and splendor of the Indian countryside and mountains. Guarav's passion and devotion to motorcycling and his steadfast pursuit of enlightenment shine through in this film. I would recommend "Riding Solo to the Top of the World" to anyone who has even the slightest interest in seeking out his or her true adventurist nature. Guarav has the true gift of inspiration. Well done! | |
| Author: Michael Greer | Posted: Feb 26, 2007 |
A fine film | |
| Like Guarav, I thought he would leave and document a motorcycle ride. Instead what we really got was a life journey, exploring unknown people and places. Very little of the film was about the motorcycle ride, instead it is rich in people and culture. | |
| Author: Kyle | Posted: Feb 26, 2007 |
Review by Friction Zone motorcycle travel and information magazine, USA | |
| A couple of years ago, Indian filmmaker Gaurav Jani decided to ride his 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycle on a solo journey from Mumbai, India up to the Changthang Plateau of Lagakh. One of the most remote places on the planet, this arid plateau is sandwiched between the Karakoram Range to the north and the Himalayas to the south, has an average elevation of 15,000 feet, and is only accessible by road for four months of the year. It also lies very close to the Chinese border and is home to a nomadic tribe of goat herders known as the Changpa—but we will meet them later. In order to make this trip, the personable (if sometimes rather unintelligible) Jani essentially bungeed 220 pounds of gear—including tent, sleeping bag, clothes, some food, and a video camera to record the journey—to the back of his 440-pound bike and set off. (No big BMW bike, aluminum hard bags, or other high tech gadgets here—he could not afford them.) The result of this trip is the film Riding Solo to the Top of the World, which is a surprisingly moving and beautiful record of a life-changing journey. The first third or so of this 94-minute documentary consists of footage Jani shot during the ride up to the plateau, which is a remarkable feat by itself in that he himself shot all the footage of himself riding. The sheer time and effort it takes for him to set up the camera high above the road, then scramble back to the bike, ride it back up the road, turn around, ride it back down through the camera’s frame, then ride back to the camera again to pack it all away is too exhausting to contemplate. But his efforts are worth it as we watch him negotiate roadways such as the spectacular Gata Loops—a series of 21 switchbacks that ascend 2,000 feet in pretty short order, as well as the two highest mountain passes in the world. (We also learn that Indian highway officials have a great sense of humor. One sign urging drivers to slow down on a twisty mountain road reads: “Darling, I want you, but not so fast.”) Additionally, all that footage helps us transition from the lush greens of the lower, more populated elevations up to the sun-bleached whites and brown of the desolate and arid mountains. However beautiful and awe-inspiring all that footage is, up until Jani gets to Ladakh (which translates as “The Land of the Passes”) his film still has the flavor of just another motorcycle travelogue—same idea, different locale. But once Jani is over the World’s Highest Pass (18,634 feet), the whole tone of the film begins to change because now this filmmaker and amateur cultural anthropologist is in the land of the Changpa, a world far different than anything he or his viewers has ever experienced. For the next several weeks and the rest of the film, the motorcycling aspect of the trip fades into the background. It is as if Jani realizes that his little motorcycle journey to the “Top of the World” is a paltry achievement compared to the difficulties the Changpa face on a daily basis. Instead we watch as he lives with and travels among these people whose livelihood demand that they live in this forbidding and austere place. (The undercoat of the Changpa’s goats gives forth the unusually soft and warm wool that goes into the making of pashmina shawls. That coat only grows on goats that live above 15,000 feet.) Once Jani is among the Changpa, the film becomes something truly special, which is one of the reasons why it has won so many awards at film festivals from Calgary to Mumbai. As he travels among these people, their amazing—and little studied —life unfolds before us. (Because the Changthang Plateau lies practically on the Chinese border—western organizations such as National Geographic have been denied access to the area.) We watch as a Changpa mother shakes milk into butter by using a goat’s carcass; Changpa toddlers play with baby goats; and in a particularly surreal moment, Jani teaches English to Changpa schoolchildren via a story in their battered readers about cowboys of the American West. We see a monastery inhabited by a single monk whose sole job is to care for the decades-old mummified remains of the monastery’s founder; and we watch, amazed, as Jani witnesses a miracle—an event that changes the way he looks at his entire life. To sum, Riding Solo to the Top of the World is one of those films that starts out as one thing, then slowly becomes something wholly unexpected and ultimately, very moving. After watching this film, this reviewer devoutly hopes that Gaurav Jani—who is also one of the founders of the Indian motorcycle travel club known as “60kph”—takes a video camera on all his travels. It will be very interesting to see where he goes to next. Two screenings of the film are scheduled for the U.S. On April 13–14 it will be shown at the Roxy Theater in Missoula, Montana and on May 12 it will be shown at the Atlanta Museum of High Art. For more information on other U.S. screenings, email info@dirttrackproductions.com. Review by Kate Edwards for Friction Zone, motorcycle travel and information magazine. USA http://www.friction-zone.com/ | |
| Author: Kate Edwards | Posted: Feb 24, 2007 |
Solo Ride | |
| Dear Gaurav, You are making INDIA Proud. WOW! no words to express. These type of films should be shown to youth in order to inspire them. Awesome! Superb! Great! Keep it up and get some more such films. Best regards Sanyog | |
| Author: Sanyog Deshpande | Posted: Feb 20, 2007 |
Superb | |
| Jani Bhai, Yesterday I got my copy by registered post... viewd immediately in one sitting... well done bhai..I could relate with the journey since I had seen Ladhak region 2 years ago in my Bullet... keep the goodwork going... Cheers Simon Chennai, India | |
| Author: Simon | Posted: Feb 19, 2007 |
Outstanding | |
| This video touched my heart; I'm primarily a motorcycle adventure enthusiast, but I just can't get over how much I enjoyed the cultural, humanistic and faith aspects of this film. Good luck to you Gaurav Jani and your adventures to The Top of The World. Mark, Michigan, United States. | |
| Author: Mark DeKruyter | Posted: Feb 19, 2007 |
Absolutely Wonderful! | |
| Riding Solo To The Top Of The World is a terrific film, and I share many of the sentiments expressed by other reviewers on this webpage such as the picturization of the exquisite scenery, the nice music, etc. This is an absolutely wonderful documentary of Gaurav's journey. I admire people like Gaurav. I don't know him, but I have a feeling he'd have undertaken this journey even if he weren't filming it. I feel that he's an individual who derives his energy, motivation, and passion by being close to nature and it's peoples. It's evident that he's an avid student of nature and an amateur anthropologist. No doubt the film seemed so genuine, real, and even spiritual. Of course, he's also a very talented filmmaker. Like someone else also mentioned, my favorite part was when the rain arrived after days of group prayers and ceremonies at the Buddhist temple. I had goose bumps! I am looking forward to his next adventure! My best wishes to Gaurav. | |
| Author: G. Shankar | Posted: Feb 11, 2007 |
So different and superb! | |
| Dear Jani, You have done the impracticable. I do not mean the motorbike trip but instead adventure, beauty, humility, poetry and HUMANITY... Well done. I have just one dream: to have the chance to spend a few days with you when I will be in your country. In fact, I am doing another adventure too: a beekeeping round the world tour, solo, with a BMW 1150GS Adventure. You can see details and more than 1,200 pictures on www.worldbees.com I came from France and I am in Central Asia (Feb. 2007), so, see you soon ;-) Gilles | |
| Author: Gilles RATIA from France | Posted: Feb 4, 2007 |
Review by webBikeWorld | |
| webBikeWorld Motorcycle Video Review by Rick K. Link to the Article: http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-videos/riding-solo-top-world/ Rating: Fantastic film, a must have Yes, there's a motorcycle in this video. The bike plays a crucial role, but this is much more than another motorcycle adventure; it's the story of a life-altering experience. It's too bad that Riding Solo to the Top of the World is being distributed through the motorcycle underground, which immediately brands it as a weirdo with the "normal" video distribution channels. The result? Most people will unfortunately never see this gem. It's hard to describe this video because it's amazing on several different levels. Guarav Jani not only completed an incredible journey through one of the most remote regions of the world by himself on -- get this -- a 350cc Royal Enfield, he also directed, scripted, narrated and filmed the entire adventure by himself. Now you may think that this would result in an amateurish attempt at video, especially since Jani admits right up front that he's never used a professional videocam before. But the result is camera work that ranks among the most breathtaking I've ever seen, and it's not just because of the incredibly deep beauty of the scenery "at the top of the world", but also because Jani has a true knack for the art of film, capturing shot after shot with perfect exposure, focus and, most important of all, intuitively artistic scene composition. You could probably grab any random frame in the 94 minute film, print it and throw it on the wall and have a gorgeous work of art. But even if you don't recognize the technique at work here or understand what it took to put it all together, surely you'll be moved by the images and the story. The basic idea has been seen before: man goes on a motorcycle adventure through remote wilderness. But where most videos would focus on the bikes and the breakdowns, Riding Solo to the Top of the World keeps the focus on the story. It's all about the land and the people and how it changed Guarav Jani. His magic is in making us understand what this journey means to him. Don't get me wrong -- incredibly stunning scenery certainly helps and so does the fact that this is one of the most remote regions in the world, inhabited with a deeply spiritual people who have a relationship with the Earth that is way more intimate than any one of us reading this web page. This is a combination just begging to tell a story. But it's also remarkable because it shows us a place that, if not for Jani, we would have never even known existed. Let's face it: there aren't too many places like that left on this fading planet... Jani took some risks for sure, but we never really learn much about the effects on the Enfield, and that's not a problem at all. Instead, the bike is a tool and a metaphor for the single-mindedness of the journey. Riding solo on a motorcycle on any type of long-distance adventure through the wilderness is a trip unto itself, and even more so at, say, 18,634 feet on the highest road in the world where altitude sickness is an immediate and deadly threat. As the story goes, National Geographic wasn't even allowed to visit some of the places that we see on Jani's trip. Apparently, a single traveler on an old Enfield slipped through the cracks of the military border guards in a way that the big guys couldn't -- and probably wouldn't. The basic idea was for Jani to tour through the Changthang Plateau, way up in the north of India, situated between the Ladakh and Himalayas (I told you it was a place you've never heard of!). He carried all of his equipment, water and extra fuel on the tiny Enfield, stopping along the way to get some rough metal framing added to the bike to carry the 300kg of equipment. Jani shows us in the video how he would have to set up the camera, go back, ride towards or away from the cam and then go back to get it for each shot of him on the bike. That in and of itself must have been a frustrating experience, especially with some of the conditions in that region. The result is a really wonderful view for the entire family, motorcycle nut or not. The film has won several awards so far, including Best Documentary Award (Biography), at the 2006 Kerala Signs Film Festival; Recipient of National Critics Award and the Golden Conch for Best Documentary at the 2006 Mumbai International Film Festival and it was nominated for Best International Documentary Award at the 2006 Calgary International Film Festival. Guarav Jani is apparently coming to the U.S. this summer and will be scheduling some showings with local motorcycle clubs and answering questions about this remarkable video. Do yourself a favor and either buy a copy or go see Guarav if he's in your neck of the woods. Highly recommended. | |
| Author: Rick K. | Posted: Feb 1, 2007 |
USA Trip | |
| I recently received my DVD and it does not disappoint! The scenery is spectacular and the music always brings a smile. When things get crazy at our office we sometimes stop and take a break and watch the movie trailer it always lightens the mood. Our problems seem to shrink after seeing Guarav's endeavors and hurdles. If Guarav is visiting the USA and he gets to the Orlando/Daytona area he has a place to crash. I am a Enfield owner and would be honored to meet him. donlayton@earthlink.net | |
| Author: Don Layton | Posted: Jan 22, 2007 |
Trip to the US | |
| I can assure you a dinner if your itinerary will take you to Southern California anytime before the end of May, 2007. I will myself be leaving for a cross country trip, (but nothing so remote as your travels!) at the end of May, intending to arrive at "Americade" in the first week of June. Will you be anywhere along that route? I would be glad to meet Daman again,when I am on the East coast and would be honored to include him and his lovely family in our dinner plans if we can work out the time. Martin Sechrist, mtsdls@aol.com | |
| Author: Martin Sechrist | Posted: Jan 21, 2007 |
Great travel log | |
| Great entertainment and better than most travel logs that I have viewed. This video really does deserve awards. Robin, Victoria BC Canada | |
| Author: Robins Classic Motorcycles | Posted: Jan 21, 2007 |
Review - Riding Solo... | |
| Excellent film!! Beautiful scenery and sound....loved the music. Fascinating journey to a place I'll never be able to visit...to see sights and hear sounds and see the people. I love to travel so thoroughly enjoyed Guarav's experience with all the people he encountered along the way. My favorite part is the Buddhist temple and the rain...very powerful! The film had be interested all the way through. All the hard work in getting the video shots was well worth the effort! Well done! Thanks...will be waiting to hear about more video riding adventures! | |
| Author: Lou Canick | Posted: Jan 21, 2007 |
Review by RealClassic Magazine, UK | |
| Never mind going from Land's End to John O'Groats, here's a great documentary about a man who takes his travelling seriously. Would you ride a 350 Bullet to Tibet? Riding Solo To The Top of The WorldI've probably mentioned before that reviewing bike videos is probably one of my least favourite tasks (and I'm the person who empties the cat litter tray in this house, so that gives you a clue about how poorly bike vids tend to rate with me). I've seen too many badly researched, badly shot, wobbly, out of focus films which mainly feature a great long string of bikes rounding one corner - here's an old bike, look! And another! And another! And another three dozen of the things! And now they've all stopped for tea! Gee. That's exciting. The alternative is professionally shot films after which the professionals should have been shot, because they've plonked a posh bike on a plinth and scripted a wildly inaccurate voice-over which provokes a chorus of 'no it's not!' and 'no they didn't!' and 'I'm not sure this film is doing your blood pressure any good, dear.' Hurrah, then, for Riding Solo To The Top Of The World. Loved it. An hour and a half of enjoyment. I will 'fess up straight away and explain that while the classic motorcycling is an integral part of the film, it isn't what the film is about (and maybe that helped). The film is about a solo trip on a 350 Enfield, laden with 220lb of luggage, from Mumbai to one of the most remote places on the planet, a frozen plateau on the border of India with Tibet. It's a better film than most 'we saw the world' documentaries because it was produced by a professional film-maker in his spare time. That man is Guarav Jani and he's also the chap who rode the motorcycle. Oh, and he's also the sound-man, camera-man, director, stunt-man and provided his own back-up. In other words, this is a REAL solo trip, undertaken by one bloke with a mountain of equipment and a ferocious dedication to his art. When you see some of the shots which show Guarav riding in glorious isolated splendour through a snow-scattered mountain pass you'll gawp - and then you gawp again when you realise he had to set up the shot, leave the camera running, ride for the camera, and go back and fetch his equipment… EVERY time! The soul of this film isn't in its technical achievements, however. It's in the spiritual journey which accompanies Guarav's meandering progress while he travels with nomads at 15,000 feet (enduring altitude sickness) across 20,000 square miles of wilderness. There are no roads and there are no maps, and most of the settlements move around, so Guarav follows the word of mouth trail to find a festival which happens only once in 12 years - then he moves on to a monastery where a weekend's prayer marks (or provokes…) the start of the rainy season. Guarav has no easy way of charging his camera batteries, and he has what looks to be a scant supply of petrol strapped to the Bullet's jerry-built luggage rack. At one time the oxygen was so thin that the engine wouldn't run properly (or, eventually, at all!). This is a very far cry from a long ride in Britain, with petrol and mechanics in every town, a mobile phone always at the ready, and a comfy bed in a purple people-sleeper at the end of every day's journey… In the end, to reach the most remote location, Guarav cannot ride his Enfield. The terrain is too tough for the laden machine. So he pushes it, like you do, and becomes the first person to film at the Chemur monastery. Then he turns around and heads back to his modern life in the film industry in Mumbai. This is an award-winning film, and I'm delighted that it's been so well received in the mainstream. It is a little light on motorcycle content - probably because it was aimed at Joe Average and at not us - so I'd encourage Guarav to do a director's cut version, one which tells us more about how the bike performed and how he prepares it for the trip, and what maintenance it needed along the way. We caught up with Guarav at New Year; he was on a ride in the Himalayas along with 30-plus other riders to catch the first snowfall and celebrate his bike club's fifth anniversary. He wasn't sure how well his film would go down in other countries, where modern riders are used to have 100bhp on tap plus three support trucks and an entire film crew. 'It's great for me to know that people around the world are relating to the experience -- riding minus a powerful bike and equipment. We thought it might not go down well outside India.' Stop worrying, Guarav. You've ridden to the top of the world - and your film does that ride credit. Reviewed by Rowena Hoseason See the full review at http://www.realclassic.co.uk/books/dvd07011500.html | |
| Author: Rowena Hoseason | Posted: Jan 16, 2007 |
don't buy this DVD-- buy 2! | |
| excellent video. even the camera work is almost unfathomable. add in the culture, vistas, honesty, courage...unbelievable. can't wait til the next one. good job. | |
| Author: john murray, Calfornia | Posted: Jan 15, 2007 |
Hello From Delaware | |
| Hi Gaurav! Your sister brought me back one of your signed DVD's from her trip last month. What an incredible film! The images are so crisp and beautifully captured, you really have a great eye for composition. I really liked the personal feel of the film, too. How amazing to actually live among nomadic people and experience their lives for a short while. I wish you the best of luck with your career and can't wait to see the next film! | |
| Author: Jaime Bald, Wilmington, DE | Posted: Jan 15, 2007 |
SUPERB! | |
| Great, fantastic! I will buy your DVD right now. And the next one too when it will be ready. I will promote your beautiful movie to all my friends during my "Round The World" journey. I am on the roads too, solo with a motorbike since 2003: www.worldbees.com I expect to be in the same aera next summer (2007). Take care, Gilles RATIA (from France) www.worldbees.com | |
| Author: Gilles RATIA | Posted: Jan 14, 2007 |
Met you in Leh!!! | |
| I don't know if you remember us, the group in the hotel in Leh two years ago. You were very busy with your films and we were very anxious to see them. Then we said to each other: These impressions are so beautiful: the world should see them. Now you come to the festival in februari the Himalaya filmfestival and I hope I can greet you there. I already made a reservation !! I am very lucky for you that your work is appreciated. Greetings! | |
| Author: Anneke Reedijk | Posted: Jan 13, 2007 |
Riding Solo to Top of World | |
| Adi M. Maneckshaw, P.E. 52 Wanoma Circle Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 January 10, 2007 Hi Gaurav: My name is Adi Maneckshaw. I am a good friend of your brother and I am also his patient. I was one of the privileged individual who had the opportunity to see your dirt bike docudrama. It was superbly done and photography was excellent. You should submit for the US Academy Award Performance. Probably too late for this year but may be for next year award. When Uday bhai gave me your DVD Riding Solo To The Top Of The World, my initial thought process was oops may be another docudrama with 10 songs and romancing motor cyclist in India riding from town to town having fun. (Just like an Indian movie) OR Trying to copy the docudrama (true Story) of two Brazilian friends –who had just passed their Medical internship and drove all over in South America encountering difficulties, running out of funds and getting in trouble and finally made it back to Brazil a year later. Since, I use to ride motor bike in India and in USA until I had an accident when I stopped riding the bike. My kids have custom built Harley Davidson bikes. I wish I could still ride, but your brother may not approve of the same now. I have shown your docudrama to several of my kids, friends and they were totally impressed with your skills as a motor cyclist, photography, and beautiful sceneries you captured along the way. It takes lot of courage and tenacity to do what you achieved in 3 months riding solo, modifying the frame structures of the bike etc. in remote parts of India/Nepal area, meeting herdsmen and developing friendship with them. Absolutely a beautiful thing to do. Gaurav, if and when you come to USA to see your brother Uday, I would like to meet you personally, have drinks and break bread. Remember I am Parsi Bawaji – I eat meat, so I will have to convert you to meat eating (Jain)-hindu-bhai. Once again congratulations and keep up with your adventures. I am looking forward to seeing you at the Academy Award in USA. Let me know of your new adventures, love to see you once again in action. Keep in touch young man and have fun while you are young. Looking forward to meeting you in USA. Adi M. Maneckshaw | |
| Author: Adi Maneckshaw | Posted: Jan 11, 2007 |
Riding Solo DVD | |
| Great movie, wish I could do the trip though it's now on one of my trips to do before I die. Was really surprised how well it shows on my 58" plasma. For a beginner moviemaker he sure turned out a winner. | |
| Author: Chris Harris | Posted: Jan 5, 2007 |
From Northern Canada | |
| Absolutely amazing.I owned a Royal Enfield for 6 years in Northern Canada.I've ridden in the winter,one winter without missing a beat,but this trip is something I would never have tried.Well documented by a brave soul. Great service from Dirt Track productions and thanks to Bulletmania for putting me on to this great adventure. | |
| Author: Rejean Gagnon | Posted: Jan 5, 2007 |
Two thumbs up! | |
| A film that everyone would appreciate... from bikers to serious travellers/trekkers to anyone who appreciates our culture! 'Riding Solo...' is simple, strong, unpretentious and straight from the heart. It captures the romance and the adventure of travel... Two thumbs up! Tarak Rindani Pune, india | |
| Author: Tarak Rindani | Posted: Jan 1, 2007 |
Riding solo dvd | |
| Verry interesting Dvd, expecially for fotography, music and the taill of the ride. And it is more amazing and enthusiastic for a Bulletter like me. Very fast shipping: I ordered on line and I got it in 10 ten days: I live in Venice, Italy. | |
| Author: Paolo Venice Italy | Posted: Dec 27, 2006 |
Review from Alaska Premiere | |
| Four and a half minute video clip of what the audience had to say after the Alaska Premiere of Riding Solo.. at the Anchorage Museum auditorium. An event by Robert Baker and North Star Multimedia, our Alaska distributor. Click here to view the clip | |
| Author: Dirt Track Productions | Posted: Dec 26, 2006 |
Very interesting dvd | |
| I thoroughly enjoyed the dvd and meeting all the people on the way... I ride a ZR7 in Manchester and couldn't imagine riding in some of the terrain on the film. I hope there are many safe and challenging rides ahead... Linda | |
| Author: Linda Knight | Posted: Dec 24, 2006 |
The Best to Date | |
| Watching 'Riding Solo" was a pure joy. It had the perfect balance between bike and people. For a fellow enthusiast of both travel and motorcycles this balance is critical. It is the story of one man travelling gently in a hostile land, though the lives of strangers, now friends, and doing it all on his everyday motorbike. That it was filmed by one man on his bike is testament to the immense talent of the film maker. Gaurav makes the achievement seem effortless. By the end you are In my view it leaves other motorcycle travel films in the shade. I look forward to his next installment. | |
| Author: Stephen Edwards | Posted: Dec 24, 2006 |
Superb Job Gaurav | |
| Superb film. We often hear of "solo" work that involves a film crew behind the lens. Here, it is just one man and what a superb job he has done, not only in riding to the top of the world and one of it's most remote places, but also in filming it in such an engaging way. Surely many were involved in post production and kudos to them, as well. It has been a pleasure to see Gaurav introduce us all to the hearty nomads of the Changthang Plateau and the pageantry of the Buddist ceremonies. This is so much more than a motorcycle travelogue. A real work of art. Congratulations Gaurav. I hope the awards keep coming. | |
| Author: Doug Moench | Posted: Dec 23, 2006 |
Hello 60KPH - Oregon USA | |
| Hey Dirt Track - Your DVD arrived at my place here in Portland Oregon in less then 2 weeks after it was ordered via the web site. Dropped it into the player and - Wow - I was transported to my dream ride. Thanks for sharing the experience! All the best ~ Michael | |
| Author: Michael | Posted: Dec 20, 2006 |
My Review from Morning Reads BMW MOA Forum | |
| I received my copy of RIDING SOLOS TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD the day before Thanksgiving. Within two hours of picking it up at the post office I had two more things to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day Thursday, an incredible movie and the smile on my face every time I think about watching it. When I first posted the link to the trailer I signed up for the newsletter so that I know when the DVD came out. When the notice arrived in my mailbox I ordered it up. Wednesday it arrived at the post office and I picked it up on the way to visit my mother. I am the baby of my family. My mother is a few months on the south side of 90. After a stroke a couple of years ago she moved to an assisted living facility. She is very deaf, is able to fall asleep in mid sentence but at the same time is a wonderful conversationalist and story teller. When she moved to the facility I purchased a nice television with a DVD player for her. She surfs the TV for home remodeling, educational and travel shows. My plan was to visit her, pop the DVD in to see what it looked like on a decent screen before going home and watching it on my ancient tube. Mother and I would have a visit, she would fall asleep in mid sentence and I would go home to watch the complete movie. Ninety minutes after I had put the DVD in she asked, “Well when are you bringing that back so we may watch it again?” She had spent the ninety minutes intently watching the DVD and punctuating the viewing with comments. ‘I can’t understand a word he is saying but the scenery is beautiful.’ ‘That music. It kinda puts a smile on your face.’ ‘He needs a haircut.’ ‘Look at the color of that lake…that sky…that…’ ‘He got a haircut …no it’s just in a ponytail. Oh well I like this anyway.’ She is a mom even at her age. For ninety minutes we had taken a journey with Gaurav Jani on a five year old 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycle from Mumbai to the Changthang Plateau and the boarder with China. I sat in wonder as I watched and listened to him in the beginning. This seemingly unassuming man was taking off on a multiple month adventure. We see his travel gear laid out for us. I had “better” equipment 30 years ago. ATGATT- little beyond a helmet and boots fleece and flannel; there seem to many differing opinions of what that means. He is an assistant director by trade he admits that he has no prior hands on experience with a professional grade camera. The list of obstacles to this being a good adventure let alone a good movie could go on. Gaurav Jani's plan was a non plan according to a blurb on the Dirt Track Productions website. “I wanted to make a documentary series about the romance of travel in India: … without a proper film unit or a plan. Without a pre-planned screenplay and film unit, the documentary was to capture the real experience of travel.” He has done this in the form of an exceptional DVD. In the description Chartered Club of the Day recently included a quote from the website of the Sled Dog Touring Team. “The Sled Dog Touring Team was born as a way to identify riders who could be counted on to Do the Right Thing in any situation be it on the road or around the campfire.” There is a valid point wrapped in that line of bravado. Perhaps that is why so many of us tour alone or two up on a single bike rather than in groups. Gaurav Jani’s original non-plan was for the journey to be done with five riders. The website teases us with a news of a coming sequel with multiple riders. I am a solo tourer by choice and disposition. If Gaurav Jani is an exemplar of that group, it is a group of riders I would truly aspire to ride with. RIDING SOLOS TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD Product Details • Format : • Language : English, Hindi with English Sub-titles • Format : NTSC - All Regions • Run time : 94 mins • No of discs : 1 (Dual Layer) • Rating : Suitable for all ages • Aspect ratio : 4:3 • Sound : Dolby Digital Stereo 2CH Dirt Track Productions Home Page A NOTE ON ORDERING: In the process of ordering the DVD I was treated to an outstanding example of customer service. I experienced some difficulties in placing my order. In a rapid series of e-mails from Gaury Jani I was well taken care of and my DVD was received promptly. If the problems I encountered have not been worked out by the time you order, it is well worth any effort to receive this film. The cynics among the readers who doubt the e-mails were from Gaury Jani I have a simple response. If they were not, he has surrounded himself with people that do great work. I choose to belief the solo rider is still doing his own grunt work despite the accolades the film has received. Either way it is another reason I would welcome him around my campfire and would aspire to ride with him. __________________ | |
| Author: John Ziehlsdorff - M1ka | Posted: Dec 19, 2006 |
I luv u jani | |
| Nothing is left to say now ! You've enjoyed the true pleaure..........Maza to bahut aaya hoga Gaurav..........For your knowledge i want to let you know that i am going to meet chang-pas this summer, If you have any message for them then let me know at +919812755455 or at amit_the_beast@yahoo.com........................keep riding...VRRROOOOOOOOOM>>>>>>>>>>> | |
| Author: Dr. Amit Chaudhary | Posted: Dec 11, 2006 |
Riding Solo... | |
| What an unbelievable experience Guarav must have had. I am in awe of what it must have taken to make the trek AND act as the photographer and crew. This must have been a life altering experience and you should be proud to have completed it and make it available to the world so that we can live through your work. | |
| Author: David Varney | Posted: Dec 7, 2006 |
A DVD I Would Never Make Copies Of | |
| When I went for the private screening of Gaurav Jani's docu in Bangalore, I expected it to be another docu. After the screening was over, I knew it was much more than just a docu that you get to see on these fancy white channels. I mean, alone? A one-man film crew? With a story to tell, and actually coming back alive to tell it and so well? It was beyond anything I could fathom or even have nightmares of trying. The way it turns from a mere travelogue to a commentary on spirituality and makes a believer out of you, is amazing. Like him, we were all in faith that day, and may remain in faith for days to come. And the realization that faith can give you the courage to do the last stretch of 120 kms where a truck goes only once in six months, is spine chilling. And relaxing at the same time. Buy this DVD and watch it if you want that extra bit of courage to go the last mile. Ved Nair's music? You have to listen to the amazing track to realize what it is. No words can do justice to what this Mallu has done. The central theme that runs through the entire film is so haunting, you are sure to catch yourself whistling the tune long after the film is over. Here is one DVD I will never make copies of. And the next time I think of buying a gift for anybody, I know I can always bank on Gaurav Jani to sit and tell a story in your living room, that has enough spiritual powers to transport you to heaven and back. Juleh, Gaurav. Arijit | |
| Author: Arijit Ghosh | Posted: Dec 7, 2006 |
Congratulations and Kudos.... | |
| My heartiest congratulations on the release of the film. I received the DVD copy a couple of days back, and so far I have watched the film five times. I myself, being a Royal Enfiled Bullet enthusiast, traveller and also a serious amateur photographer, felt stupendously thrilled to see someone work on a project like this. It definitely requires lot of guts, confidence and love for the work to undertake a project like this. My shallow word-power in english is not allowing me to use a good word for this amount of passion. As of now I can only wish- wish I could have done something like you have done, I wish I could have followed my passion as you have done, I really wish ! I would like to appreciate your art of story telling, its simple, I feel, and hence its a very strong and effective way of story telling, which has touched me. I would also like to appreciate your style of photography. Your focus, I felt is towards the simple things in life, which matter the most. Superb framing of shots, usage of natural color and light add to the beauty of the film. The part of the film where the character asks you about the names of different colors in english, is very touching. Maybe it just reflects on the simplicity of the character, his eagerness to know. He seems delighted to welcome you into his life. He is rich, but he is humble, simple and down to earth. What a strong character he is ! Actually each and every character in this film is as vital as him. The story behind every character is very strong and thought provoking. I would like to conclude here by congratulating you once again for the superb job you have done. Wish you all the success. Srikant Chakraborty Bangalore INDIA | |
| Author: Srikant Chakraborty | Posted: Dec 6, 2006 |
Brilliant | |
| The filming, editing, dialogue and presentation of Riding Solo is absolutely brilliant. Especially when you take into account that all the work in the field was done by one person. The views are breathtaking and the photography is superb. The whole package has been put together in such a way that the viewer can really share the experiences. This film has now set a standard for motorcycle and travel documentaries that many even with far larger teams and budgets fail to achieve. I ordered the DVD after a recommendation on the Horizons Unlimited forum. it truly deserves the awards it has won. Paul | |
| Author: Paul Myers | Posted: Dec 6, 2006 |
Simply stunning | |
| Well what can I say, spent a very enjoyable winters evening watching ‘Riding Solo’, Only someone that has tried to ride a bike at altitude would understand the extreme problems that were overcome in order to make this film, my sincere congratulations. This unique insight into the nomadic lives of the indigenous people of this northern region of remote India is fascinating. The film neatly and respectfully shows that the tug between modern living with it’s cars and houses is nowhere more acute than in this area. Depicting both Farther and son from the same tribe leading very different lives, one rejecting the ‘modern’ way, the other opting for comfort and convenience. The filming is simply stunning, largely helped by some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. The shots are breathtaking and will make a lasting impression. It was also very evident that this kind of film would not be possible using a traditional large budget film crew, as the locals would clearly have been intimidated to such an extent their normal way of life would have been lost or missed altogether. What a fantastic way to see the world (by bike), and what a stunning way to portray it. Five Star rating (richardg Ride-Out.com ) | |
| Author: Richard Graham | Posted: Dec 6, 2006 |
Riding Solo To The Top Of The World | |
| A really great production. I bought the movie as a present for my friend who loves bikes and trips round the world and I love learning about other cultures and people groups. The film is about both which is great. The service too was excellent, very efficient and reliable. I ordered the movie as soon as it came out and expected to wait ages fot it be delivered from India (when I used to live in India it took ages sometimes to send things home to Poland) but it got here in a little more than a week! | |
| Author: Jola | Posted: Dec 4, 2006 |
New Perpetual Inspiration | |
| "Riding Solo... " is the perfect example of someone facing the life, circumstances & all fallouts of one's efforts to do what he likes, headlong. It is my new companian, my new source of rejuvinating elation. Could not stop myself from viewing the movie again, again & again... Had shown it to all my friends who think, this life is for some purpose, who feel life is unique, a resource not to be wasted, & its one's own responsibility to find the motto, & the best way is to follow your dreams. come what may, never loose heart. & this is exactly what i feel everytime I see "Riding solo..." Gaurav you have shown, us a way, an example, of how determined we should be to achieve what we dire for. "Riding solo..." is something what i feel is a perfect gift to motivate someone, to show them example to follow, to fight hardships, that too on themselves own. Something that says lot more than what you can comprehend, everytime additional meanings. Hats off for your laudable effort. Best of luck for everything you do in future. | |
| Author: Dr. Vijay Malik, India | Posted: Nov 30, 2006 |
Wonderful! | |
| Riding Solo arrived today and I immediately took it home and viewed it. Guaray made me feel that I was part of his journey and that I could share his experiences. I compliment him on a simple but excellent piece of work. It was so refreshing to see real pepole and events and not contrived computor graphics. I would recommend this movie to all bikers and non-bikers alike. Guaray, I await your next adventure! Bill Sarjeanr, Vancouver, Canada | |
| Author: Bill Sarjeant | Posted: Nov 29, 2006 |
Inspirational | |
| Riding Solo is one of the better movies I have seen in years. This was a classic movie to motivate my thought process. Gaurav has shown me once again that in order to truly live one must follow his dreams and face his fears. I am closer to personal freedom today. I would ride with him any day. | |
| Author: Matthew Haley | Posted: Nov 29, 2006 |
Incredible!! | |
| I receieved my copy of "Riding Solo" yesterday, and have watched it twice so far. It is, by far, the best example of the motorcycle adventure documentary that I have ever seen. The scenery, the people, and the grit and determination shown in the making of the film are truly inspiring. Congratulations on bringing such an uplifting and spiritual ride to the people of the world. I can only hope to one day be able to follow in your footsteps! | |
| Author: Alynn Hiscox | Posted: Nov 26, 2006 |
PS - Service | |
| I shoul | |