Reviews & Feedback
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| Author: Ajay | Posted: Oct 31, 2016 |
Fantastic Experiene and good job | |
| Hi, I've seen a movie solo ride to the top and thats the best movie i ever seen. Not to insult by telling as movie it is an life experience its a great film to watch. I am from tamilnadu - Chennai. Keep going this is awesome. I've seen that there is no movie or activites in any of your page fb page afetr 2015. Kindly do post and update with new film and willing to buy "One crazy ride" however afetr seen that shipping will be on sep 1 2014 i doubt wheather the site is live or not. Do update in fb page. I am a die hard fan of your's and gonna do promoting your movies to all if my friends. love 60kph club <3 Thanks. | |
| Author: Diwan | Posted: Oct 23, 2016 |
Awesome, no words are enough | |
| Gaurav saw your film at IBW, and to tell you you the truth, I was speechless, its just fantastic just to experience the film. I could feel your passion for adventure and commitment for the cause. Very motivating. And in near future I will be trying to do it for sure. And wishing you all the very best for future adventures. | |
| Author: Mangesh | Posted: Feb 21, 2016 |
videos | |
| It has been a long time since this site has been updated. Are the videos available? I have tried to buy them and can't find a way to do so. Are they still available and how can I get them? | |
| Author: moose | Posted: Jan 2, 2016 |
chngpa | |
| really nice films.... you are really luck that you are getting time to do this,, when are you releasing motorcycle changpa. harmeetbatra@hotmail.com | |
| Author: harmeet singh | Posted: Jul 25, 2015 |
Good,but could be better | |
| Both films were very interesting,charting new territory,and the riders showed great endurance.But the music was annoying,and it spoiled an otherwise good pair of films. | |
| Author: John Williams. | Posted: Dec 30, 2014 |
Mr Jani, You are an inspiration | |
| I think everyone goes through that phase when the reality of his life is such that it makes no correlation with the dreams of childhood and that phase i consider is what actually breaks you down to an extent that you start accepting everything as "Chalta hai yaar and kar bhi kya saktey ho". i had mine, a Fucked up job and a total total fucked up life, i had no choice BUT to keep my mouth shut, close my eyes and accept life how it came and live it like everyone else, forever, till i would have died a death, least known and never celebrated. Its not a TVC commercial where ill say then i discovered you and it changed my life BUT life is crazy i tell you and the most serious life changing things happen to you in much like may be a TVC. It was Deepa, i met her in Escape a few years back and like every other boy who adds a Pretty, bold, outgoing girl in "Facebook" i added her. she acted as the bridge between me and you, one day i saw her posting about your film "Riding Solo" and i really do not pay much attention to people who pay no attention to me, and Deepa din pay any attention to me but i did click on the link she had shared that day because that was a day that was meant to hold a reason. Next thing was i come to this website and get to read about your film, being an aspiring film maker that time, there was no reason why not to watch this film So i ordered it, and when i saw the film, i saw it again, and again and again and again. your film was like a sermon to me and showed me the Power of ONE MAN. It gave me hope and you can always take Part credits in whatever i have achieved in my Life till now. Mr. Jani you will always be remember by me Always :) :) Regards and hope we ride together someday Tonmoy | |
| Author: Tonmoy | Posted: Jul 5, 2014 |
Expectations Exceeded! | |
| I am guessing that I had a very different perspective than most when it came time to watch the two films 'Riding Solo" and 'One Crazy Ride'. My perspective differed in that I had completed the 'Ride to the Top of the World - Ladakh' trip with Gauravi and friends prior to viewing the films. Given that much of the Ladakh tour was documented in 'Riding Solo', that film really hit home for me. I was blown away by the way the film captured the scenery, sounds, and challenges of riding through the region. In addition, the culture, people, and experiences that one is exposed to when traveling through the remote areas of the Himalayas are documented exceptionally well. People always say that no words or images can accurately describe or show one's experiences. While that may hold true here, in my opinion Gaurav and his team came as close to achieving that challenge as they could in 'Riding Solo'. Now, it looks like I have to experience One Crazy Ride to see if my expectations can be exceeded twice! I strongly urge everyone who has a passion for travel, motorcycles, beautiful scenery, unique cultures, and adventure to pick up a copy of these films. I even more strongly encourage you to consider taking the ride of your life by booking one of the tours. Thanks again Gaurav, Dirt Track Productions, 60 kph, and the Ride of My Life team! Andrew Canada | |
| Author: Andrew (Canada) | Posted: Aug 26, 2013 |
In praise of One Crazy Ride and Solo | |
| I recently watched Solo - borrowed from a friend - and enjoyed it very much. So much that I went looking for and bought my own copy of One Crazy Ride. I watched it the same day it arrived in the post. Another very enjoyable movie. Even if you are not a motorcycle person there is plenty in both films to enjoy. Stunning country, interesting people and culture plus - for me at least - plenty of Enfield. Thankyou Gaurav. I am not sure if this should be an attempt at a review of the movies so , I will just share my feelings. Gaurav has done a terrific job - even more amazing when I think about all the work that it is involved as a one man film crew. I suspect he really enjoys the challenge but it is never over stated. I like his gentle sense of fun that runs through both movies. In my mind it is a reflection of his deep respect for the people he meets and travels with and the land he travels through. In Gaurav's world - you meet the nicest people on an Enfield. It has inspired me to get out on my own Enfield and do more exploring in my own part of the world. Anyone reading this feedback page - if you have not done it yet do yourself a favour - order a copy of both dvds today. You will not be disappointed. Leon Australia | |
| Author: Leon Down | Posted: Jun 23, 2013 |
Two wheeler means bonding between two (biker and bike). | |
| First of all salute you Gaurav Sir, from my heart for doing an incredible task. I am also a alone traveler, i especially do trekking to the Himalayas. i used to think, about to ride a bike to the hidden gems of the Himalayas.but when i saw Riding solo its really much more than my dream, because of it was really one man no two man army You and the royal enfield (bullet).Your effort your courage really it s beyond the normal limit. Sir i, also like bike, road, nature and i would like to work with you as an assistant and ready to discover the hidden gems.Really Sir, you have become my role model, wheever you feel that i can join your track please Sir call me @ 09780730729 or mail me hshivom@gmail.com. I will wait for your response till my .....H. Also good wishes for your next tracks. Bbye always keep on track.............. | |
| Author: Vikas | Posted: Jun 6, 2013 |
Biking and Bonding- two common way to attach with life | |
| I loved those two films not only because its about bike as I'm also a member of reknowned biking community called xKmph.com- The Indian Bikers' Community, but liked it because it also touches the soul with the common bonding called humanity... the interactions with the people, to feel few days of their lives.. to get away from the busting busy life and to sleep close to the mother nature.. I salute Gaurav for making these.. I'm eagerly waiting for the next Chang Pa with lots of expectations as Gaurav already set the bar high this time around. All the Best Gaurav.. miles to go... | |
| Author: Tarun Kumar Basak | Posted: Apr 25, 2013 |
any one with a pulse... | |
| the films are so good I buy them for everyone I know who's vaguely interested in motorbikes or travel or anyone who has a pulse... Should come with a stress level warning for those with a fear of bridges... Utterly brilliant! | |
| Author: old father Ogg | Posted: Mar 26, 2013 |
Lovely film | |
| Being a rider myself I was looking forward to this film and I was absolutely NOT disappointed. Lovely film! thank you | |
| Author: Bart Sim | Posted: Mar 12, 2013 |
Inspiration & Motivation bundled into a mission | |
| Hi Being a workaholic, I hardly get time for bike ride on terrains other than in the city. However, I make sure to join some of my friends on rides once every couple of months. I heard about Gaurav and his passion for discovering Mother Nature with his loner a year ago. Learning about him, I went through his documentaries “Riding solo to the top of the world” & “One crazy ride”. “Riding solo to the top of the world” breaks the myth that a Loner Rider can ever conquer terrains of Leh (an un-motorable track). The ride itself inspires & nourishes mind and soul which whitewashes the tiredness of the ride. Hats off to Gaurav for doing things which everyone dreams off. “One crazy ride” opens up with Gaurav starting trip with 5 other riders to an undiscovered terrain, a place which is still unmapped on the Map of India. The takeaway for me as a viewer of the documentary is the passion & the motivation which kept on Gaurav to complete the ride even after his companions left at halfway. Hats off to the courage and passion shown by Gaurav to stay strongly with his belief. I watched the teaser of “Motorcycle Changpa” last Dec after which I read about the journey which Gaurav did for almost an year exploring ChangTang, again an unexplored region for many. I am sure this documentary will bring much more than what the previous two had for me. I salute to the courage & determination of Gaurav and thank him for making me strong from inside gaining inspiration by his passion. I am sure there is a lot more for me than just work, to explore. Waiting for your next release “Motorcycle Changpa”! Best Wishes, Kaushal Sharma Bangalore, India. @kaushalsharma84 | |
| Author: Kaushal Sharma | Posted: Jan 31, 2013 |
Solo Rider.... | |
| I have been following 60kph team nd there awesome work from 2009 .. whn I 1st saw "Riding Solo on the top of the world" the first thing strikes in mind was wht an incredible work coz riding solo and covering the inhospitable condition riding isn't a cake walk .So do the "One Crazy Ride".... Simply HATS OFF Sir...nd u deserve tht.... | |
| Author: Harry(LongShortDayz) | Posted: Jan 5, 2013 |
Thanks | |
| GJ & The Team, you guys have made me live every minute of the movie sitting in my drawing room, was just not able to get my eyes off the screen.. Arunachal, Thanks a Ton for doing that trip, bikers will be enticed to do these after the Himalayas.. Regards, Vishnu Lotlikar | |
| Author: Vishnu Lotlikar | Posted: Dec 29, 2012 |
Incredible Chang Pa | |
| I was unaware that people would go to such extremes to realize their passion. Mr. Gaurav deserves great applause for having done the most daring / intricate documentary I have ever watched. The very thought of how he made it possible gives me goosebumps. Both the movies are legends in their own respect. Loved them and will do all I can to promote them here in UAE. | |
| Author: Amjad Khan | Posted: Dec 28, 2012 |
Awesome | |
| Awesome experience. It was too good. This guy goes to places which you don;t even know if existed on the map. My love for bikes and exotic places returned after watching the movies. Don';t miss them- you may not know but you will surely miss an experience at least. | |
| Author: Saurabh Jindal | Posted: Dec 21, 2012 |
One Crazy Ride | |
| Hey, I had come home for college vacations last summers when my dad took me along to see "One crazy ride". I was initially not very open to the idea of seeing a documentary, but thank god I came that day. It totally changed my view towards documentaries...I thoroughly enjoyed it and I really wish more people of my age get to see it too. One crazy ride inspired me so much that ever since I saw the film I have been taking my group of friends on bike trips in Goa (where I study at BITS Pilani university) every now and then. :P I would really like to thank Deepa for introducing me to the world of documentaries and Dirt Track Productions for their brilliant films. I wish you all the best for your new film " Motorcycle changpa". Me and my friends are waiting for it's release.. :) | |
| Author: Chaitali | Posted: Dec 16, 2012 |
Riding Solo | |
| I loved oth the movies... but i dont know why i like riding solo more... may be because i could relate my leh ride with it... really good work... Gaurav jani seriously deserves alot of resepct for all his work... now waiting for motorcycle changpa... keep up the good work... :) | |
| Author: Joshil Kewalramani | Posted: Dec 14, 2012 |
Crazzzzy Biker...Bravo !!! | |
| Hello Biker, I was unaware of Dirt Track Productions and their adventures until I read an article on Motorcycle Changpa. At the end of it I decided to watch both Riding solo and One Crazy Ride and as a result eagerly waiting for the next craziness. Believe me..it did impressed me a lot and both the adventures goes into my collections. I am an avid traveller (at least in my thoughts) and an explorer..always wanted to visit Leh (In my must visit list) which also prompted me to watch this film. The highest altitude I have been to..is Rohtang Pass and it was very difficult to sustain there...I can therefore..kind of understand what Gaurav had to go through while living his work/passion. It was indeed a very brave effort being solo !!! Thank you Gaurav for this outstanding effort of yours. At the same time I am saddened to see that this kind of work goes unnoticed in this country and we therefore need to do a lot to make people realise what is exactly an adventure and how do we need to praise it. But I am happy to see that this work of yours had won many hearts (awards). I wish you all at Dirt Track Productions many more crazy and safe adventures... Amritpal Singh pal21@in.com | |
| Author: Amritpal Singh | Posted: Dec 11, 2012 |
loved "riding solo" | |
| already saw it 3 times, loved the scenery and music. i was really inspired by it! cant wait to your next movie. Bravo. | |
| Author: Zucker | Posted: Dec 8, 2012 |
Passion, Endurance, Romance | |
| First of all, I want to say Thank you DTP & Gaurav ! My wife and my close friends are ardent fans of Gaurav Jani. We have seen both Riding Solo and OCR and I personally have seen it over 50 times (not exaggerating) before we went for our Ladakh Trip (2011). I personally, do watch a lot of Indian Wave movies and love to make one, someday. Every time i watched Riding Solo & OCR, there was something new. I noticed that it is the sheer passion, determination, courage and endurance which completes Gaurav as a unique independent film-maker from the rest. One Word for Gaurav: Respect !! There was a screening in Bangalore few months ago and since i have watched his documentaries, i was eager to meet Gaurav in person. When i met him, i could easily relate to Gaurav and i knew our hearts had one passion - Romancing the roads :) I also want to emphasize on the music too. No matter how best a travel movie is made or how much we are overwhelmed by the hardships endured by the rider, it is music which elevates our emotions and which helps us relate to the rider`s emotions. Having said this, Ved Nair has contributed fabulous background scores as a strong cornerstone for Gaurav :) One Word for Ved: Beautiful and keep creating more subtle tunes :) There are so many forums for travelling and bullets and even clubs. I`m the kind of person who would love to do my own stuff. My trails, My time, etc. But now, i an ardent fan of just one forum - "Dirt Track Productions". My passions are riding and films with a substance and hence i will keep promoting DTP from my side. I am eagerly waiting for the release of "The Motorcycle Changpa" and i know this is not going to be just another movie. It is going to be the best travel movie ever made. It is the icing of Gaurav`s trilogies. Looking forward eagerly. P.S: DTP & Deepa - Keep on promoting :) Thanks & Regards, George Mathew & Gloria George | |
| Author: George & Gloria | Posted: Dec 5, 2012 |
Thank You | |
| Thank you for your creative documentaries that I have enjoyed so much! I have donated some money to help keep the dream alive. I can't wait for the next dvd. Very inspiring! Thank you, Thank you!!!!! Kindest regards. Shane. | |
| Author: Shane | Posted: Oct 3, 2012 |
Erm? Can't really fault it. | |
| I love bother Riding Solo and Once Crazy Ride. It never ceases to amaze me what was accomplished with so little. The content was more engaging than any other 'Motorcycle Adventure' films. It's very hard to say exactly why. However, I will just say this. I am a teacher in the UK and I was recently trying to get my class to understand the difference between what is required in a human habitat and what is luxury. It's a real struggle getting the children to grasp this as they have no experience of living without the comforts of western living. For many, they have never considered that people live without electricity, or even solid houses. My lesson was rescued when I dug out my copy of Riding Solo To The Top Of The World. A class of 8-9 year old children sat entranced for 20 minutes and gained global perspective that I just couldn't give them. What's more, they keep asking me if they can watch the rest. I think that is quite an achievement. So, if you're looking for honest/constructive criticism, I have only this to give: MORE PLEASE! | |
| Author: John Snelson | Posted: Sep 28, 2012 |
riding to the top of the world | |
| We love this film and find it so entertaining and professional that we have given it as presents to all sorts of people who also have loved it. (We especially like the fact that the rider had to virtually do the route twice to retreve the camera.) Hurry up with 'chang pa'! I must say from the released pictures it looks a bit cold------ how do you manage to survive Keep up the good work and keep the wheels turning | |
| Author: val wakeman | Posted: Sep 25, 2012 |
chang pa release date | |
| I am a big fan of your works sir. Just wanted to know when are you going to release Motorcycle Chang Pa. Please let me know at rohit.dvd@gmail.com | |
| Author: rohit dwivedi | Posted: Sep 24, 2012 |
Hi Gaurav | |
| Dear Gaurav, First of all...i would like to say thanks for taking us on tour of Ladakh via riding solo...:) I atteneded your promotional programm in Pune at TIlak road, i think in 2009..Since that moment i'm bid fan of yours!! Wanted to take one photo wid u..once i come down to Mumbai..:) This year and for the first time in my life, i went for bike ridding to Manali in peak winter..It was heavy snow fall that time..temp was -7 degree.. It was just inspiration i have taken from you and i did it!! Now a days i'm shifted to chandigarh. However i'm always crazy about your off road bike riddings. I wish i could join one road trip with your group to Ladakh. I wish you good luck for your upcoming rides and project events in ridding. I would be glad to meet you, if you are travelling to chandigarh in future. Thank you. Best Regards, Vijaykumar Golekar Manager - Business Promotions ESDS Software Solutions Pvt.Ltd Cell : +91 8968284466 | |
| Author: Vijaykumar Golekar | Posted: Jul 25, 2012 |
comment | |
| hi Deepa, I really love the clips n the land escapes. it's beautiful. keep up the good work. all the best. | |
| Author: Hawang T Wangsha | Posted: Jul 23, 2012 |
Chang Pa Teaser | |
| The visuals are spectacular as always with you guys. I quite liked the background score. Wanted to know if the track that runs from 1:05 (once the motorcycle appears) is the same one used in Riding Solo. Have you retained it for recall value? Perhaps you could have more frames (like jump cuts) and have the music at a faster tempo toward the end (the last few seconds of the teaser), just so that it overloads the viewer and makes him want more. Kind of like what MTV Sound Trippin does with its videos. | |
| Author: Satyajit | Posted: Jul 18, 2012 |
Dirt Track | |
| Awed to see the beauty of the place, and wondering how the ride through such a difficult terrain would have been. Well done! | |
| Author: Vandana | Posted: Jul 16, 2012 |
well done. | |
| the place looks as warm and inviting as it is. I personally think music is bit too loud, but then I have sensitive ears. :) | |
| Author: Jo | Posted: Jul 15, 2012 |
Panic in the heart | |
| Gaurav ...man awesome..Hats off ( Enormous RESPECT !!!) This documentary is just beyond the 1 hour 30 min it stays. A biker myself , I could feel and know the goosebumps and panic in the heart during a solo journey. You have hidden so many things from the viewers. I bet the film is nothing compared to the experience of a life time that you had. Loosing the trails , confused about directions, the sheer uncertainty, in the end elation of a rewarding journey. Please try to write a BOOK or a blog about the journey in detail . | |
| Author: amal joshua , kerala | Posted: Jun 28, 2012 |
Changthang - Amazing work!! | |
| Dear Gaurav, First of all I'm not biker! Always aspired to buy the Bullet but never got to it! What I did was fly helicopters for the Air Force in Ladakh for 2 and a half years. I've been fortunate enough to see virtually all of Ladakh from the air and it is a land that one does not forget! I sat through the whole documentary without a break inspite of the wife giving me venomous looks!! I was moved to tears looking at those spectacular shots of Hanle and Chushul. The story was gently told, no judgements , just observations of a simple folk going about their most extraordinary lives. I'd love to return one day just to interact with the people.. During the course of my flying I was lucky to take a few pictures. I'd love to share my experiences with a fellow traveller! I don't know if this is the right forum but you can contact me at anandlulay@hotmail.com. Thanks once again for the film and happy biking!! | |
| Author: Anand Lulay | Posted: May 30, 2012 |
Great | |
| amazing, even though have seen it a number of times, but never get bored of it, love the way the films makes you relieve your ride to place. | |
| Author: rajiv pradhan | Posted: Apr 24, 2012 |
hello! | |
| My boyfriend and I just watched Solo ride to the top of the world. We have seen many other motorcycle trip films and this one seemed the most honest. I liked that the gear brought along was shown and how much effort was put into every shot. Great music too! What an adventure. Kristine -Edmonton Canada | |
| Author: Kristine MacDonald | Posted: Apr 10, 2012 |
JUST GREAT | |
| HI MY NAME IS TERRY CUMLEY AND I LIVE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. I NEVER MUCH GOOD AT WRITING FEEDBACK .SO THIS EMAIL WILL BE SHORT AND TO THE POINT. I BROUGHT SOLO RIDE ALSO NOW JUST BROUGHT ONE CRAZY RIDE. I DID NOT THINK THAT THE FIRST FILM COULD BE OUT DONE BUT ONE CRAZY RIDE IS JUST GREAT . I HAD TO SMILE AT THE ROYAL ENFIELD BULLET JUST A GREAT MACHINE WHICH WE MADE AT THE REDITCH PLANT HERE IN THE UK MANY YEARS AGO.IN THIS COUNTRY WE MAKE FILMS ABOUT WELL KNOW BIKERS WHO HAVE A LARGE BACK UP TEAM AND TRUCKS WHICH FOLLOW THEM. AND THEY MAKE OUT ITS HARD GOING.WHAT A BUNCH OF USELESS CRAP THEY ARE . I HAVE TO HAND IT TO THIS GANG OF BRAVE BIKERS . THEY HAVE WHAT I CALL TRUE SPUNK. THEY CAN CALL THEMSELF TRUE BIKERS AND BE PROUD OF IT. NO BULLSHIT HERE JUST HARD RIDING ALL THE WAY. ALL THE BEST TO ALL THAT MADE THIS FILM. IN MY EYES BRAVE TO THE END. YOURS TRULY TERENCE | |
| Author: TERENCE CUMLEY | Posted: Apr 5, 2012 |
One Crazy Ride and Solo Ride to the top of the World | |
| I have seen Solo Ride to the Top of the World and just recently got One Crazy Ride. I thoroughly enjoyed both films and I feel that I am a better person from seeing them. Thank you | |
| Author: John Darcy | Posted: Feb 28, 2012 |
A Truly Wonderful Adventure | |
| I was lucky enough to meet a few of the 60 kph "club" here in the US. They had traveled here to promote the film, and one evening at a little biker cafe in Everett WA I was privileged to see this film with 50 or 60 others. The overall reaction in that room was that indeed the film is aptly titled - the ride that is shown is a testament to the human spirit and a revelation of just how far that spirit can propel a person. Beautiful photography, up-close and personal encounters with all kinds of people, and a story of unwavering focus on a goal. It was almost unbelievable that even in the middle of nowhere, somehow a mechanic could be found with proper tools to do a repair to one of the machines. I love this film, and would recommend it to anyone, even those who have never traveled anywhere by motorcycle. The film isn't "about" motorcycles- they are just the vehicle for a message of freedom and hope and trust and aliveness. | |
| Author: Gary | Posted: Oct 1, 2011 |
CRAJEEE | |
| "craziness is in the mind....."...seriously??? The movies/documentary/ holy crapbucket of good shit... were amazing, nothing short of mind blowing. Its evident the amount of perseverence gaurav has shown while taking each shot, while making sure his story is told in as many perspectives as possible, which is why riding solo to the top of the world is better, because it was just him to think it through, to take his time and come up with something worthwhile. One crazy ride on the other hand had 5 people and well, it wasnt as much fun to watch, although there was an apt description of the friendly dunken stupor found commonly in the north east, it was worth watching it for the friendly nature of the people, im just ranting now Kudos on your achievements, you guys ROCK. | |
| Author: ashish | Posted: Sep 26, 2011 |
Best Adventure Biker Movie I've Seen So Far | |
| I bought Riding Solo To the Top of the World at an auto jumble and wasn't sure what to expect. Obviously I've seen the big budget Long Way series but this was in a class of it's own. Actually, as a documentary about people and their environments it was amazing. I can't wait to see One Crazy Ride and one day I hope to come to India and see it for myself, perhaps from the saddle of an bullet. Thanks. | |
| Author: John | Posted: Aug 13, 2011 |
Ride on brothers and sisters | |
| All the way from Mumbai, the Dvd’s of ‘Riding Solo..’ and ‘One Crazy Ride’ reached the Dutch delta within 6 days of the purchase; the global brotherhood of low-tech motorcyclist is well connected! The movies were an absolute revelation. 60 kph is the way to roll: after ‘slow cooking’ comes ‘slow motorcycling’, living in the landscape instead of through it. The film work is very well executed and reflects Gaurav’s humorous and humble self-reflection. The pacing of the film is rhythmic allowing for both a rapid buildup of the narrative (the riding scenes, the interaction with the various peoples of the high plane, the interaction between the motorcyclists) and moments of serenity in the landscapes captured. ‘Riding Solo’ is proof to an exceptional one-man feat. ‘One Crazy Ride’ shows that riding solo may provide mountains of time for inner reflection but that riding together can liberate the individual from him or herself. Ride on brothers and sisters…looking forward to your next movie. | |
| Author: Konstantin Mierau | Posted: Aug 8, 2011 |
Inspiring | |
| What a unique documentary! I thoroughly enjoyed watching the DVD and I truly admire Gaurav Jani's adventurous spirit and stamina. Besides being the rider, he's the one-man film crew, sharing his ride and allowing us to learn about the people he interacted with on his motorcycle journey over rough terrain to the Changthang Plateau. | |
| Author: John Graham | Posted: Aug 2, 2011 |
Keep going crazy guys... | |
| "Riding Solo To The Top Of The World" is the best film ever MADE about motorcycles, motorcyclists and about the passion of those who share the values of humanity, friendship and respect, always on two wheels. Dear Gaurav Jani, you're an inspiration! Regards from Portugal. | |
| Author: Pedro Gordo | Posted: Jun 16, 2011 |
Chang Pa Adventure | |
| Once again, I am amazed by your resolve and sense of adventure. In the same spirit as your previous films, the teaser looks captivating and soulful – not just a journey but an education. I can’t wait to see it. | |
| Author: Jared Zaugg | Posted: Jun 8, 2011 |
Nice, what to say | |
| Like previous two and this will be great movie. Little rough weather conditions but see that U really like what U doing. Whish U good time and all best, take care.. rgrds p.s. when I need peace,quiet and good movie just take one of Urs and play them again.. | |
| Author: Kristijan (Craotia,Europe) | Posted: Jun 7, 2011 |
Chang pa Journey | |
| Gaurav That was a teaser, I want more the whole thing great photos as usal . cant wait til you get the new film in production. Happy Trails withy your motorcycle Roger | |
| Author: Roger Wheelock | Posted: Jun 1, 2011 |
Am I a Biker? | |
| Gaurav, I just reveived a copy of your DVD (Top of the World) sat down briefly to watch the opening minutes and sat spellbound through all of it. It is a remarkable piece of work in many ways: a wonderful bike journey through terrain that was spectacular but gruelling at times; a technically challenging and obviously tiring piece of camerawork; a physical and spiritual odyssey for you and a respectful and touching homage to the people and places you met along the way. And all done by a modest, self effacing man without sponsorship from manufacturers of high tech "adventure" bikes or mountain equipment. I wonder if, by comparison, I'm a biker at all? Thanks, Gaurav. Thanks for doing this. For doing it in this way. And for sharing it with me in your DVD. I am humbled and inspired by you. | |
| Author: Pascal (Ireland) | Posted: May 6, 2011 |
Congratulations | |
| I was given a DVD of your trip to the northeast from Indra Sen, who knows someone on your team. I'm glad to see this level of work coming out of India; the adventure motorcycle media is entirely dominated by western voices. I'd love to join you on the next adventure, assuming I can coordinate an India trip with your itinerary. Ever thought of offering adventure motorcycle trips with guides for local and international riders? There are a couple of Americans interested in doing something like this in India, but no one I know in India seems to be serious about doing something similar. Your experience with using film to tell the stories of rides like this would position you perfectly for something like this! Ride safe. Dave. | |
| Author: Dave Chakrabarti | Posted: Mar 13, 2011 |
Films | |
| Both DVDs are inspiring. Best wishes on your new project spending a year and especially the winter with the Chang Pa people in extreme weather conditions. I hope they become popular in general and not limited to biker community. The messages are universal, the bike is just a medium. | |
| Author: Anonymous | Posted: Mar 7, 2011 |
Comments on DVD's | |
| Your DVD's has been received without problems. I's impossible for me to say how these films has been appreciated and what intense emotions has been generated from the fantastic landscapes you were able to capture with your camera. From a normal biker (me) to a real biker: please, don't leave your way, we want to share your dreams. A strong and firm biker handshake. Franco | |
| Author: Franco Maroglio | Posted: Mar 5, 2011 |
Solo Soul Rider | |
| Very great,dedication that one can show and also capture in that in video. Best Of Luck for your future projects from me and Tha Hood,would also like to tag along if we can. Guess what while posting this it ask me to write "became". Would definitely like to "become" solo rider. Thanks & Regards Jani Tha Hood 9867114878 | |
| Author: Jay Jani | Posted: Jan 3, 2011 |
Are subtitles available?? | |
| In my previous post I was referring to "Riding Solo To The Top Of The World". This REALLY needs subtitles. | |
| Author: WheezerTheGeezer | Posted: Dec 21, 2010 |
Are subtitles available?? | |
| I watched my son's copy of this recently. I missed most of the dialog due to the narrator's rather thick accent (and my own old geezer ears not being what they used to be). There are also passages where dialog is not in English that went on for quite some time leaving me in the dust. Are subtitles available for this great film? If not, how about a transcript (in English). I'd be happy to create subtitle files and share them but I need the transcript. Thanks for considering this, there are probably a lot more folks who would benefit from subtitles. | |
| Author: WheezerTheGeezer | Posted: Dec 21, 2010 |
Great film!! | |
| what a great movie!! very good cinematic style, and you can see what a chore it was to get the shots as he is on his own, thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. | |
| Author: mike | Posted: Dec 14, 2010 |
Oregon USA Premiere | |
| I had the pleasure of meeting 'Sobi' at the December 11 presentation of 'One Crazy Ride' at the NW Vintage Car & Motorcycle Museum in Brooks OR, USA. You can read a review of the film at http://openroadrider.com/blog/?p=397 | |
| Author: Colin Freestone | Posted: Dec 12, 2010 |
One must be willing to pay the Capital cost of Awareness | |
| I am fortunate to have had seen this film a couple years back when I was visiting NID Ahmedabad at a guided screening presented by Ved Nair. A few days ago, I met a very old friend who told me he had been to Ladakh and I remembered this film and promised to send him the link. That's how I came here and saw this wonderful thread. I must admit I've not seen such high degree of passion in too many other discussion across the internet. I'm convinced, we do all really love our country, in our individual ways. I am specially moved to read Mike's comments and (though I find some of his language pretty polluting) I can fathom the depth of his emotion, seeing his beautiful love of youth getting (possibly) destroyed at the hands of a new generation. Yet, I cannot but notice the tremendous potential of this film and perhaps more films with some more insight into the uniqueness of Ladakh and the absolutely priceless natural gift that it is, to raise a comprehensive awareness among people far and wide that the internet today helps us reach. I'd urge Mike to see that his generation and Jani's generation and my generation are shifted from each other by not just a large nuber of years but also by a radical change in thought and interest. Increasingly, on the internet, with the kind of awareness that can be shared, nobody plays the blame game anymore. Governance, as we knew it is experiencing a massive paradigm shift. This film gets our pulses racing and sets the stage for a solution oriented / in-depth scientific work. anybody? So on the question of the 'prostitution of ladakh', I can only see this film as a Capital cost of Awareness and a larger positive stride. | |
| Author: Avik Ganguli | Posted: Dec 9, 2010 |
Bridge in Arunachal | |
| Just watched your trailer from Arunachal Pradesh. Do you guys REALIZE that such hanging rope bridges are NOT meant to be crossed using bikes. You can easily damage them and locals will remain without the bridge that is vital to them. Dont mind, but really an IDIOTICAL crossing. In our country if one does something like this can get up to several years imprisonment, just imagine if you would have fallen over the bridge: you would kill yourself, you would make a great damage to the bridge, moreover if bridge would be damages, sometimes locals are unable to repair it again. Sometimes when they REPAIR hanging bridger, it happen that repair man may die on the work. In Nepal they had cases where people who rerpaired hanging bridge died in accident while repairing. And all BECAUSE OF YOU STUPID GUYS WHO RAPE SUCH BEAUTIFUL BRIDGES WITH MOTORBIKES. In your own "small" way you are CONTRIBUTING such worlds to disapper... Mike | |
| Author: Mike | Posted: Dec 6, 2010 |
Prostitution of Ladakh | |
| THERE IS ONE OLD TIBETAN PROPHECY COMMING FROM PADMASAMBHAVA SAYING "THAT WHEN THE IRON BIRD FLIES (airplanes) AND THE HORSE RUNS ON WHEELS ( cars, motorbikes ), THE TIBETAN PEOPLE WILL BE SCATTERED LIKE ANTS ACROSS THE FACE OF THE EARTH AND THE DHARMA WILL COME TO THE LAND OF THE RED MEN" Wheeling in India........Born To Be Wild........Enfileds......Harley Davidson....Hondas.....Kawasakis .......occassionaly some Motto Gucci's..............sometimes old BMW (these are the best)......... Riding into the land of lamas.......high passes.......melted snow........ice.....snow.... I was in Ladakh way back in 1985. when most of you guys were kids or babies playing with motorbike toys. It is unbelievable how much Ladakh is PROSTITUTED since 1985. in the name of tourism, car rides for fun and biking. Everyone buys a new terrain car in Delhi or Bombay and goes to Ladakh to try it. Since it was first opened to tourism in 1974. Ladakh is simply prostituted. Some time I was wondering what would be the shortest possible term to describe and couldnt find a better word then prostitution so far... Who is responsible for that ? Mostly Ladakhis and their owners. Who owns Ladakh ? Indian Government ows Ladakh territory. They issue special permitts for some parts of Ladakh since they are owners of Ladakh. And who owns Indian Government ? - All India owns it - 1,1 billion of people. It took me a longer time to understand why Tibetans were a closed culture. They did not allow foreigners and strangers to cross high passes and enter Tibet. Also they did not allow foreigners to make films, even not to film their faces. They were scared of wheels and cameras. Some of you have surely read "Seven years in Tibet" and you know what I mean. Since 1985. seeing the changes of Ladakh on the media like Internet, changes are great, but to whom ? Ladakhis today largely depend on tourism, although they successfully lived from their livestock and land. They surely lived 5.000 years in their traditional way. The wheels have brought lots of changes into Ladakh and Tibet. But problem is in Ladakhis and Tibetans also. They are the prostitute ready for the new customer. Gaurav, you have prostituted Ladakh when you made a movie and you distribute it. You are eager, as stated on your webpage that the movie would be candidated to new and other film festivals , so more and more people will see it. Do you know how Ladakh will look like after 10, 20 or more years ? There will be new road signs like "Caution, drive slowly - bikers ahead". Indian army digs a tunnel which will enable 365 days drive from Manali to Leh. Ladakhis are also responsible, since many of them started "selling" themselves to the world ( to Indians and to the foreigners ). Not all Ladakhis are pios buddhist. Culture on wheels has signifficantly changed them. Possibly this year's flood disaster in Leh is not just a mere climatic coincidence. One has to really ask oneself deep down in self - why this year Leh faced a flood like never ever before. Gaurav, your travel is magnificent, framing of scenes is perfect. You are a good man. Something like a chotta Mahatma. But it's not that your movie is great filming. You have only WITNESSED Ladakh and ChangTang. It is that Ladakh is great, nature is splendid in Ladakh, not the film. But it is a two-sided-coin. To the people living there, their natural environment is cruel sometimes, especially in the wintertime. Quite sad for me to read in many of answers here that people seek adventure, and the "best" way to do it is to ride a motorbike in Himalayas, just like you, more remote - the better !?! GAURAV, YES, THE MOVIE HAS SOME PROVOKATIVE EFFECTS. First I liked the movie lots, and still like it, but as time passed I felt I have to write you some different opinion about it. According to me, the biggest problem with this movie is the existance of movie itself. My believe is that places like Ladakh and Tibet, as well as some hidden jungly places of India, should REMAIN LESS KNOWN TO INDIANS AND FOREIGN TOURISTS. Internet and the way of producing DVD's has great ability to influence people. Tourists come to places and spoil local people. Tourists have more money then local people, and people like people, everywhere, they are keen for the money. ALREADY WAY BACK IN 1985. A MONK IN ONE MONASTERY NEAR LEH TRIED TO SELL ME ORIGINAL ITEM FROM THE MONASTERY. LUCKILY I HAD THE REASON TO REFUSE. Had this been something smaller, maybe even made of gold, something valuable, nice and relatively cheap for me, who knows, possibly I would have bought it......After so many years I still remember that I said to the monk that I believe that everything what belongs to the monastery should and shall remain in the monastery forever and ever. Still I have a slide photo of that Ladakhi monk with his bitter face, after i refused to buy anything from the monastery. YOUR BIGGEST FALLACY AND FAILURE IS AFTER YOU HAVE CREATED A MONUMENTAL FILM THAT YOU HAVE COME TO IDEA TO MAKE IT PROFANE FOR EVERYBODY WILLING TO BUY IT. ALL SUCH MOVIES SIMPLY PROSTITUTE LADAKH. It is amazing how today Leh and some parts of Ladakh became dirty of plastic and industrial garbage. Same is with Mount Everest. Around Everest, below altitudes of 4000 metres there are tons of tourist garbage. When one analizes the garbage people throw behind them, one can learn lots about people. WITH YOUR MOVIE PUBLISHED, LADAKH WILL BE LESS AND OASIS........YOU SHOULD HAVE KEPT THE MOVIE EXCLUSEVELY FOR YOURSELF AND ENJOY IT WHENEVER YOU WANT. Gaurav, it's not my intention to insult you or harm you. That is only how I reacted on watching this movie, and that is my own problem. After, as you said finding solitude in Ladakh, feeling stillness of the moment, is there any REALLY need to sell the movie for rupies or dollars ? I believe not. MY MESSAGE TO YOU IS STOP PUBLISHING MOVIES, IF YOU LOVE MOVIES, MAKE THEM PRIVATE FOR YOURSELF ONLY, THEN YOU'LL BE MUCH RICHER INSIDE. LET THE OTHERS FIND THEIR OWN LADAKH. Please don't come on idea to bike to Mount Kailas or Manasarovar. YOU BIKERS ARE WELCOME THERE, BUT COME WALKING WITHOUT BIKES. CAPTURE EVERYTHING WITH CAMERA, BUT DONT PUBLISH, DONT SELL HIMALAYAS. PLEASE DONT SELL HIMALAYAS. AS YOU SAID IN THE BEGGINING OF THE MOVIE......IT'S YOUR JOURNEY, NOT OURS.....WHY YOU WANTED OTHERS TO PEEK INTO YOUR OWN YOURNEY.....BEST REGARDS FROM A SMALL PLACE IN EUROPE... MIKE | |
| Author: Mike | Posted: Dec 4, 2010 |
Solo & Crazy Ride | |
| I have both movies and really like them both, but Riding Solo is my favorite if I had to pick one. I missed the viewings held in the USA, are you planing a return trip after the next movie is released? | |
| Author: Zook | Posted: Dec 3, 2010 |
Great tour | |
| I saw your both movies and would like to say THANKS to you and team. Great tour after seeing this movies I am now planning to buy bullet. I have no idea of bullet but my firend Manish from Mira Road knows you and have good idea on bullet. After riding Pulsar 150 DTSi for last 4 years but I am on my final stage to buy bullet. I once again thank you for making this good adventures tour. If possible to meet then please let me know. Thanks Amit Patel - 99201 94460 (amitpatels@rediffmail.com) | |
| Author: Amit Patel | Posted: Dec 3, 2010 |
Crazy Ride & Solo | |
| Fantastic. I watched both movies in one sitting. It's unbelievable what people with a dream can do. Forget about the two glossy film stars, a backup team and a huge budget (I'm sure you know who I mean.) This is the real deal, adventure riding as it should be, bare-boned and down-to-earth, with the minimum of equipment - what's more, with horribly overloaded road bikes complete with road tyres and non-upgraded suspension (what a fantastic advertisement for the Royal Enfield company and it's products.) Further, from a purely travelogue point of view, it was absolutely stunning to see the scenery in the landscapes traversed, and more than fascinating to see a way of life that is so fast disappearing (as documented by Gaurav in "Solo".) I take my hat off to Gaurav for what he has done, both from a technical and socio-anthropological point of view. I recommend these movies to anyone who has the slightest doubt about purchasing them - they are well produced, informative, fascinating (as previously stated), about the true spirit of adventure riding, not just about the motorcycle; and above all, made from the heart. May Dirt Track Productions go from strength to strength and I impatiently await the next movie. ps. 10,000 cheers to Nicky for living her dream in a male-oriented society; I really admire her for that. | |
| Author: Shaun Elson - South Africa | Posted: Nov 27, 2010 |
One Crazy Ride - Review by Kate Edwards (www.friction-zone.com) | |
| There is a scene in One Crazy Ride where rider/filmmaker Guarav Jani is faced with the task of getting his over-loaded Enfield motorcycle across a terribly dicey bridge. Over 600 feet long and built high above a swift Himalayan river, the span is constructed of nothing more than wooden planks, some bamboo, and a lot of handmade rope. Since this bridge is not much wider than a footbridge, Jani stops two or three times for a brief moment as he rides across—as if to gather himself before continuing on. Thanks to the camera mounted on the front of his bike, we make the crossing with him. Each time he stops, we breathe. When he sets off again, we don’t. It is an utterly breathtaking scene, in the most literal sense of the term. That Jani manages to put us on the bike with him and pull his viewers into his latest saga so completely should come as no surprise to anyone who has seen his first film, Riding Solo to the Top of the World (2006). In that equally engrossing adventure, Jani piled 660 pounds of traveling and filmmaking gear on his Enfield motorcycle and traveled from his home in Mumbai up into the Himalayan plateau. He did it solo and took the trouble to film both his surroundings and himself riding through those surroundings—an exercise that involved a lot of riding back and forth over terrible roads. Perhaps because of the time and effort it took to shoot that earlier undertaking, Jani decided not to make the journey that became One Crazy Ride another solo event. Instead, he joined four other members of the India-based 60 KPH Motorcycle Travel Club for the trip: the mechanical Vinod; shy Sanjeev; boisterous Soddy; and the lone female in the bunch, adventurous Nicky. With five riders to ferry the camera back and forth, things should be a lot easier, right? Well, don’t forget that old adage: if you want to make the gods laugh, tell them your plans. At the film’s outset, these five adventurers (all on overloaded Enfields of varying road-worthiness) embark upon an exploration of Arunachal Pradesh—India’s most northeastern state and the subject of a long-running territorial claim from neighboring China. Remote, tribal, and largely undeveloped, this area seems to be thoroughly ignored by the rest of India. (The sign at the state border refers to it as ‘A Paradise Yet Unexplored.’) Heavily forested, there is very little transportation infrastructure—which is partly why Jani and crew are there. They have been told that there is no way possible to traverse the state from end to end without dropping south into neighboring Assam for a spell. But these riders are not buying the existence of ‘the Arunachal Gap.’ They believe that there is a way through, even if their maps (and everyone else) tells them otherwise. As Jani states, their goal is “to chart a route which, according to most people, does not exist.” These explorers do not undertake this journey in a lighthearted manner. Due in part to its disputed status, Arunachal Pradesh has long been subject to separatist insurgencies, tribal tensions, and outright terrorism. There is nervousness among the riders as they set out into the unknown, especially since they have been warned of the dangers hidden in the forests—not the least of which are roads that have not been in use for over a decade. Of course, like travelers everywhere, they soon discover the truth for themselves via their own personal interactions with the locals. And in typical Jani fashion, these interludes are shot and recorded both with great respect and arresting visuals. Whether he is recording a rather drunken birthday celebration or a morning walk through a crowded village (which includes an outhouse that employs an interesting, erm, recycling system), Jani always seems to draw the viewer in with spare dialogue and evocative pictures. Unlike many other films from this genre, Jani knows that, in the villages at least, he and his compatriots are not the story. Out on the road it is a different situation altogether—particularly on these roads, some of which are very nearly laugh-out-loud bad. Some have not been used in years and show their wear in ways that force the team to double up in order to help everyone get through: one rides, one pushes. The resulting footage shows off not only the lush forest and incomparable sunrises and sunsets, but also the determination and fortitude of both the riders and their hardly-ever-say-die bikes. (Those Enfields are surprisingly tough.) Eventually, the roads take their toll on the rest of the team, who run out of time and have to return home to jobs and families. Jani is left to soldier on alone, and it is at this point that One Crazy Ride really starts to shine. With no distractions from team members, the journey becomes more personal as Jani turns his focus both inwards and outwards. He simultaneously takes in more of his surroundings and becomes more reflective. The result is a moving—in every sense of the word—testament to the benefits of solo travel, as well as to Jani’s talents as a filmmaker. Even with the restrictions of shooting and riding (or perhaps because of them—every exhausting camera set-up needs to be worth the effort), he always manages to get that shot which beautifully illustrates the scene. In the end, One Crazy Ride is yet another lovely film from a fellow who is rapidly making a name for himself as the best filmmaker currently operating in the genre. With his gorgeous photography and spare narrative, he excels at the main rule of visual story-telling—show, don’t tell. Through his eyes, we see both the benefits and the drawbacks of traveling out of our comfort zone. We also see why doing so is important—as he notes at the end of the film when he reflects that, sometimes, crazy ideas that involve things no one has ever done before are important in life. As he puts it, “I think it is good to be crazy once in awhile [because] in return you get the novelty of looking at life from a very different perspective.” And a worthwhile one at that. -- Kate Edwards www.Friction-Zone.com Motorcycle Travel & Information | |
| Author: Kate Edwards | Posted: Nov 21, 2010 |
Riding solo..... | |
| Well done job Jani well done!!! Can't wait see the next. Thanx for the ride! | |
| Author: Karoly Kanyo | Posted: Nov 19, 2010 |
Wonderful Films! | |
| Mr. Jani, I have had the great pleasure of owning and watching both your films, they are without doubt spectacular! The scope of the filiming and the work it took to do it on both ocasions was monumental to say the least. It is films like this that give us all hope that we too can be adventurers and take on challenges, and travel to exotic places and see what rarely is seen. You have shown us that you do not have to be a multi-million dollar movie star to have or film an epic journey (although I am sure the finances help), but to simply be the common man with a dream to hit the road and see what comes your way as far as adventure. You have grasped moments in time that I am sure will last with you a lifetime, and I wish to thank you for brining those to the erst of the world, so we too could take part in the adventure, even if only from our sofas. Is there any way someone from the USA can join the 60KPH Club? God Speed Sir, and life's Blessings. | |
| Author: D.E. Miller - USA | Posted: Nov 8, 2010 |
re: One Crazy Ride | |
| Best film I've seen in a long time Thanks for the trip... | |
| Author: Bob Brubacher | Posted: Nov 7, 2010 |
great movies! | |
| just watched both your movies and they are great! the bride crossing was crazy!!! | |
| Author: jay clifton | Posted: Oct 23, 2010 |
both the films | |
| It's almost a year now that I bought the 2 dvd's. Even after 1 yr, I find them to be highly addictive. I have been to leh-ladakh myself in 2009 and believe me, I feel like saluting Gaurav. He has just been awesome. Both the DVD's were worth the money and a collection of a lifetime. Waiting eagerly for the 3rd release. People, please do not distribute the dvd's, Let the people buy them and pay some respect for Gourav's effort. | |
| Author: Surajit | Posted: Sep 24, 2010 |
Riding solo Movie | |
| Great movie, I ordered this one to see if it measured up to the hype. Very high quality film-making for only one person, I am impressed. I will be ordering One Crazy Ride and any others that you make available as well. Keep up the excellent work. Also, the shipping was quick from India, only a week or so. | |
| Author: Jerry Beach | Posted: Sep 17, 2010 |
it gave me courage | |
| i recently met an accident. during the rest period i was both films , which i got from my brother inlaw (he was your classfellow). it really helped me to overcome that fear. moreover surprized to experience the unseen beauty of nature. u really did the great & daring job. "HATS OFF TO U" | |
| Author: kakani preeti | Posted: Aug 11, 2010 |
Great story and filming | |
| My wife and I just watched both films which we ordered only a week ago. Very fast shipping to us from India. The filming was top notch and exciting. The stories were even better. We were so excited to see the second attempt in 2007, where all the friends made the journey. We will be buying the next film. | |
| Author: David Pote | Posted: Aug 6, 2010 |
Solo ride to the top of the World | |
| Just saw the film last week and just ordered 1 crazy ride and will order your new'st one when it comes out love the way you film your adventures.Would love to ride a motorcycle over some of the passes. thanks for great films and hope to see many more. roger wheelock | |
| Author: Roger Wheelock | Posted: Aug 6, 2010 |
way cool and loved it | |
| Hi all the fantastic positive comments. But, looking at the film, I wish I was there.... ride on... Mukund Halthore | |
| Author: Mukund Halthore | Posted: Aug 3, 2010 |
Oustanding!! | |
| Loved the film,everything about it.Truly inspiring and very well crafted.Thanks | |
| Author: Martin yache | Posted: Jul 18, 2010 |
Truely inspiring ! | |
| Saw this movie at a screening organised in Hyderabad by GHAC. Every moment is truely inspiring. Your documentation is marvellous. | |
| Author: Chandrasekhar Singh | Posted: Jun 24, 2010 |
Riding solo... | |
| Just wanna THANK YOU for taking the viewer to these places from his seat or couch or wherever he watches the film from. Its the India that many of us have forgotten.. Thanks Gaurav and team. Keep filming... | |
| Author: Anupam | Posted: Jun 13, 2010 |
thank you | |
| I ordered this DVD after reading of it on Crazy Carl's chinamoto forum. I have just watched it for what will be the first of many times and was moved to say thank you. This DVD is not about the bike, or the rider, it is about the journey that a bike and a tent makes possible, the folk Gaurav met and the humanity we share. | |
| Author: jape | Posted: May 31, 2010 |
One Crazy Ride | |
| If you thought Riding Solo was good.. hold onto your hat, or should I say, your throttle. Gaurav has an amazing artful eye and captures moments of movement that will overwhelm your senses. I couldn't just watch the video once through.. I had to watch it twice immediately. I must admit, his moments of riding solo are priceless. His story telling ways are unmatched and his choices for road routes would curl anyones hair. There is just something about his quiet strength and persistence that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The One Crazy Ride Team pulls together to give us all the adventure on film we only wish we could experience. I will never tire of watching One Crazy Ride or Riding Solo to the Top of the World. You can't help but become a Gaurav fan and cheer loudly for his success. I am looking forward to his next adventure on film. It can't come soon enough. Review posted at: http://womensridingschool.tripod.com/links.html | |
| Author: Womens Riding School, USA | Posted: May 18, 2010 |
Thumbs up for Riding Solo | |
| A most excellent film on so many aspects. If it were only for the subject nature in itself, here we had the challenge of the ride and filming oneself at the same time. A must see. | |
| Author: Alain | Posted: May 12, 2010 |
Nice work ! | |
| I enjoyed your film so much. You guys are so lucky, it makes me dream a lot because in France we can do such "road" trip ;-) I was in India (Rajasthan) last year and love it. After watching this movie, I wanted to go back ! Thanks a lot, i'm waiting for the next film... ps: did you plan to come see us in France ? Lot's of crazy bikers too here ;-) See u Thomas | |
| Author: Thomas | Posted: May 10, 2010 |
A Mother And Daughter Experience | |
| Congratulations on your wonderful film. I saw it last night at the Wisconsin Film Festival with my 25 year-old daughter. Your film touched me in many ways. I was glad to see it with my daughter. What an adventure the five of you had! Mentoring comes in many forms: your comradeship, determination to complete the trip, overcoming fear and appreciating the beauty of the land and the people you encountered was very inspirational to see. You had great good fortune also. The entire audience was holding their breath when you took your motorcycle on the swinging bridge. Thank you for sharing "the Hidden Land " of India with us. Melanie Bennett | |
| Author: Melanie Bennett | Posted: Apr 16, 2010 |
Fantastic Film! | |
| I saw One Crazy Ride last night at the Wisconsin Film Festival, and had to zip over here to order the DVD. One Crazy Ride is a truly fantastic film, and may end up being my favorite film from the festival. It's very personal and engaging, and easy to get drawn into. Thanks for making movies! I'll be looking forward to your next. | |
| Author: CJ | Posted: Apr 16, 2010 |
Finally the waiting has come to an end | |
| I received the Riding Solo DVD some weeks ago and I've watched it four or five times already. It seems I can't get enough of the beautiful scenery and the people you meet. And also I seem to discover something new at every viewing. I think you must have been under a lot of stress while making the documentary. Please don't stop making films like these, they are absolutely wonderful! Hope to meet you somewhere in the future! Aart The Netherlands | |
| Author: Aart | Posted: Apr 5, 2010 |
delivery time!! | |
| thank you so very much for such a quick delivery ...al the way to GB!. | |
| Author: S.lyons | Posted: Mar 30, 2010 |
Keep 'em coming! | |
| These are fabulous films that can be enjoyed by adventurers, bikers, travellers and well... everyone! The scenery is fabulous, the people are warm and friendly, the production quality is outstanding. I am in awe of the effort put into the filming and documenting of these travel adventures. I hope you keep up the adventures and keep on documenting them, there's no doubt that whatever you decide to release in the future, I'll definitely buy it! What can I say? Thanks to Gaurav and the 60kph team for allowing us to witness their amazing adventures. bryce Melbourne, Australia | |
| Author: bryce | Posted: Mar 1, 2010 |
Wonderful Start to finish | |
| Just finished watching your Documentary "Riding Solo to the Top of the World" and would highly recommend it. Makes me want to travel. Keep up the wonderful work. Michael | |
| Author: Michael Van Horn | Posted: Feb 23, 2010 |
Automolove | |
| Hats Off !!! Dear Gaurav... You deserve an Ovation, a standing Ovation !!! I am your fan now & looking forward to meet you soon. | |
| Author: Mohit Singh | Posted: Feb 16, 2010 |
from vancouver | |
| riding to the indian backcountry must have been a truly inspiring time in your lives, and clearly gave you spiritual insights which you passed on to us the films, especially the solo with guarav- were definitely like national geographic in quality- you should be hearing from the outdoor life network soon, and i thought you observed the tribal lives with much sublety and grace towards them. next time bring better batteries, and maybe upgraded tires, the enfield use was appropriate, and they performed reasonably well- the newer engines that are being exported should handle this trip i suspect klr's would also work well perhaps there will be a screening in vancouver or seattle someday happy filming (incidentally my dvd's arrived in 7 days) terry vancouver bc canada | |
| Author: terence mchardy | Posted: Feb 2, 2010 |
Now 'zats Something | |
| Superhuman - something that makes your heart beat for the Dhup Dhup sound. Only you guys could have this and I can't but sit back in awe and wonder if I would ever have the guts to do anything close. One thing for sure, my Dhup is gonna see a lot more miles. And Sanju - that I can say I know one of you in person makes my heart swell. Aura, Pride, Guts - these are emotions I need to earn for myself now. Robert India | |
| Author: Robert Devasia | Posted: Jan 31, 2010 |
That | |
| I have just now finished watching the two movies for the second time. Well done Gaurav & team, your persistence and determination in overcoming the obstacles that appeared during the journeys is admirable. You are an inspiration to anyone who watches the films. It's a great pity that more young people wouldn't adopt your philosophy and just get out there and experience REAL LIFE, instead of the artificial cocoons we create for ourselves..... Simply brilliant, Looking forward to the next installment. John Australia PS ...by the way, I was also very impressed by the prompt delivery from India when ordered direct over the net. | |
| Author: John | Posted: Jan 29, 2010 |
Spirit Of Past Adventures | |
| Since i saw the trailers of your journey the desire to make a journey like yours start growing in me. I am sure watching your whole DVDs are worth it. Thanks to all of you for this dream and vision. I hope it will come true for me. Keep the spirit! Cengiz-Han | |
| Author: Cengiz-Han K. | Posted: Jan 10, 2010 |
your rides | |
| Hi, not crazy but fantastic. Nice to see a group on a serious run without thousands of pounds worth of back up Ha ha. Great films but I have only, 'One crazy ride' and 'Riding solo to the top of the world'. You said in 'One crazy ride' that that completes the four corners, north, south, east and west. Knowing your enthusiasm you must have filmed the others surely. Can we buy the other two? If so how? If not why not? Great stuff, keep at it , we all want more. Jerry ps Even my wife enjoyed them and she has no interest om bikes whatsoever!! Great photography - the wife. | |
| Author: Jerry Wakeman | Posted: Jan 4, 2010 |
Congratulation from Mexico | |
| Gracias por compartir sus aventuras , realmente son unos amantes de la moto / Thanks for sharing your adventures really are lovers of the bike. | |
| Author: EduardoPmtz | Posted: Dec 29, 2009 |
Solo to the Top of the World | |
| This film is one of the rare travel documentaries that captures the heart of the land and people. Well done. Traveling by motorcycle in that part of the world is is a great joy mainly due to the warmth of the people that live there. Having ridden much of the same route (on an Enfield 500 Bullet), I understand the logistical problems of traveling solo. Well done. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to ride and explore with you. | |
| Author: Dave Brown, W&F MC | Posted: Dec 18, 2009 |
One cracking crazy ride! | |
| I am not a great fan of motorbiking...10,000 miles across Australia cured me of that. The prospect of seeing One Crazy Ride at the Kendal Mountain Film Festival (northern England) did therefore not fill me with huge enthusiasm, but my fifty-something biker husband wanted company. I have to say I was absolutely hooked from the off - surprising because I had already seen two other films. Yes, it was a biker's film, but it was also about the friendships, the story of the journey, in parts reflective and beautifully filmed, funny, quirky and leaving you feeling the satisfaction of fulfillment when achieving a long-cherished goal. Even as a non-biker, I found the many scenes of bike repair fascinating - how odd! I would absolutely love to know more about how it was filmed - especially after the friends parted company. It's heartwarming and hugely enjoyable - I only came to this site to buy the DVD for hubby's Christmas present. It deserves a much wider audience - and will no doubt get it because it stands on its own as a great story and I'm looking forward to more. | |
| Author: Viv West | Posted: Dec 16, 2009 |
Great Films! | |
| Sorry to have missed the screenings here in Arizona. I did buy one film via your website and the other from a bike shop in Phoenix. I saved $4usd on the one that came all the way from India....go figure! We watched both films this weekend. Both were excellent! Bravo and Kudos to all involved! The far reaches of the globe, the natural sights, the courageous biker adventurers, the honest documentary...all brilliantly done. We especially loved the glimpses of such a foreign culture. The rich goat farmer on the plains and his family were great. What an appreciation for a renissance man in this modern day. I loved the film maker too... His passion and quest and fortitude...very admirable! Will look forward to more in the days to come. Best to all involved! Bravo! Lisa O Arizona also..wondering if i can get a 60kph sticker?? | |
| Author: Lisa O | Posted: Nov 29, 2009 |
Great Stuff | |
| I enjoyed this very much indeed. That's what adventures are supposed to be like! | |
| Author: Frank from Maine | Posted: Nov 8, 2009 |
Simply outstanding & fabulous work by 60kph. | |
| Hi Gaurav. Today at India Habitat Center, Delhi I was quite lucky to watch the screening of "One Crazy Ride". I was very eager to watch this film and had been waiting for it since long. First of all, thank u for such a wonderful film. would like to watch it again and again like "the riding solo". "Hats off" to your outstanding work and also to your creativity, braveness and your ability in taking us to one of the remotest parts of the country through your camera. i love your filming techniques as they are quite simple to understand and not to be forgottten- your music. its really sweet and pleasant especially of "the riding solo". continue taking us reach other places with u and keep growing. God Bless 60kph. | |
| Author: gaurav bhalla | Posted: Oct 30, 2009 |
Overwhelming to say the least! | |
| I just watched both movies this weekend and feel blessed to have been able to enjoy these journeys. Eye opening and humbling. Both films are must sees for any traveler who wants to learn about the beautiful outreaches of Indian. Bravo! Cheers from Canada | |
| Author: Mike Tettenborn | Posted: Oct 24, 2009 |
It's about the STILLNESS... | |
| AWESOME Movie!!! I attended the screening in Everett tonight (at Old Strokers) and couldn't wait to get home to leave a comment. Your movie is not just a movie. It's inspiring. It's thought-provoking. It's funny. It's scary. It's enlightening. It's EVERYTHING! All from the seat of a motorcycle and from the eyes of a BRILLIANT filmmaker! You are so right! Life is NOT about the Journey. It's about the STILLNESS! Those little moments. It's about the bridge-crossing, muddy, rut-gouged road in life that everyone says does not exist. You have found the true path in life... one we should all take... and that's the path where STILL moments are found. The one that leads through the jungles and rivers of life! Thank you for sharing your story, your adventure, your words, and your passion with us. It was life-changing... and truly a view from a different perspective! | |
| Author: SweetLeilani | Posted: Oct 8, 2009 |
Great Adventure | |
| Watched the film and enjoyed the adventure. Great filming and it allowed me to see the road and terrain as well as feel the joys and struggles of the riders. Always good to see new talent. | |
| Author: joef96 | Posted: Oct 7, 2009 |
Brilliant movie! | |
| Hello, I was at your screening in Seattle last night and thought I'd share the review I wrote up on my blog: http://www.red-baroness.net/blog/2009/10/07/movie-review-one-crazy-ride/. Great ride and great movie. Thanks for sharing with the rest of us and inspiring us on to the next big challenge! - Red | |
| Author: Red | Posted: Oct 7, 2009 |
gr8 stuff | |
| Gr8 stuff guys,gave an rare insight into our great country,India truly rocks,look forward to more such docs from you.beautiful shots of the vast valley with the still cam. | |
| Author: Shekhar | Posted: Sep 19, 2009 |
Make More Films! | |
| Great movie guys! Beautiful scenery! Gives me a whole different out look on India and the Himalayas! Would love to visit with my Bike! Keep up the good work! | |
| Author: Todd | Posted: Sep 17, 2009 |
ABOUT MY VIEWS | |
| HI,its deepak.k from bagalkot,KARANATAKA Dirt Track Production,,,,,its very good production of different views of different places and different people going for ride,,,,,,,,,,,i am dam interseted to ride to the moutains of himalyan.. i am also the owner of the royal enfield bike,, that is MACHISMO 350cc,,, i nand my uncle have gone for ride to goa,,belgam,,n some other different places I am very happy to share my views to dirt track production,,,,,,,,,,,, THANK YOU DEEPAK.KAMURTHI NEAR VASVI TALKIES, BAGALKOT -587101 KARANATAKA | |
| Author: DEEPAK | Posted: Aug 25, 2009 |
great movies | |
| Hi I am cetin from Turkey when checking web before going to India I found this web page and immediatly ordered both movies, first I made a mistake by orderin 2 of same DVD but thanks to Gaurav they sort it out for me very friendly and helpfull. I loved the movies not only me also the others who watched with me I watched several times and I guess will see for many times again. As I have been planning to shoot also our motorbike tours, I was planning one travel doc. movie in Mongolia about the nomads, temples and nature giving some summarized info of history to make it good we planned it too complicated with many equipment etc. your movies inspired me to make it alone or just two person max. because it can be done and it is much more real & warm. I like to thank you for your efforts regarding all above but I have a question below I am going to fly to Delhi in a couple week I like to rent a bike and ravel to north manali - leh etc. and continue to Kathmandu I am going to rent an Enfield but I have only 1 month and I am concerned about possible technical problems repairs etc. which may kill my schedule like your friends in "One Crazy Ride" is it possible to find a cross bike there or what would you advice to find a reliable Enfield or any other machine. Thanks in advance and friendly regards, Cetin Kiymet - Istanbul | |
| Author: Cetin | Posted: Aug 20, 2009 |
One Crazy Ride - My Notes | |
| One Crazy Ride is an amazing story of grit, determination and passion to achieve what one believes in. The movie has all the spices required for a good documentary, in small measures, though it is not mean't to be. Most motorcyle aficionados, including me, had turned up to watch this movie at Bangalore, Sunday morning, 16Aug2009. Some were seen with their spouse, children and parents too :-) The show started with a teaser of "Riding Solo" - another amazing movie not to be missed. Gaurav Jani explained the reasons, Why the movie was titled "One Crazy Ride". I felt, it made sense finally, towards the end of the movie. The riders - Gaurav, Vinod, Sanjeev, Nikki were there. Sobby was missing. The movie captures the nature in abundance and is well presented along with rider's spirit. Especially, the dirt tracks, the dense forest trials, winding mountain roads, places above the clouds (heaven?), treacherous terrain, human habitats in unbelievable places, to cap it all - the background music score was very touching. We could almost smell the forest freshness - it was that close! During the show, the audience connected with the movie in aspects of adventure, exploration, team camaraderie, challenges, risks, let downs - with their oohs, aahs, moans and claps. The longest clap was noticed when Gaurav crossed the narrow, swaying, foot bridge on his motorcycle and reached the other end successfully. It was a scary attempt. As the narrator in the movie says, "One should be crazy once in a while to enjoy life in a different perspective". I chose to agree in unison. To quote from the movie "..nothing is more crazier than the human spirit." Metamorphically speaking. First, there was no road. And then, there exists one! Thank you, Gaurav and team. Regards, Ravi Rajashekhar Bangalore, INDIA | |
| Author: Ravi Rajashekhar | Posted: Aug 19, 2009 |
Both DVDs #1 +++ | |
| I have both of your Adventure Ride DVDs and love them. It is refreshing to see low tech and the spirt of true adventure truimph over big buck productions. The video and still photography is outstanding. Tells the story and is art. Keep on exploring and please produce more DVDs. All of the team shows such fortitude and insights. Kudos and best wishes to you all.. Oh yes, what a tie in to the books of the HH Dalai Lama, made so much of it real and understandable..thanks also for that. Phil Buttolph Oregon, USA | |
| Author: Phillip Buttolph | Posted: Aug 6, 2009 |
One Crazy Ride | |
| Hallo all Ihave just been watching the DVD I recieved to day, Magnificent is the omly word to describe it . I started motorcycling in 1952 and still ride some 8000 miles a year mostly with my wife on the pilion, and we have no intention of giving up and it is so good to see the younger generation useing there bikes for such an adventure. We will watch the DVD manymany times. Thank you all for doing and recording something we would have loved to have done [or tryed to have done] in our younger days Again thank you one and all Colin & Shirly Webster 2002 Bullet riders | |
| Author: Colin D Webster | Posted: Jul 31, 2009 |
gaurav hamara GAURAV hai | |
| gaurav.... tum sahi mein hamara Gaurav ho(we are realy proud of you).... watching the trailers have really pushed me to have a look at the films... anyway... about riding solo.... i m in love with doing solo rides and have done a few myself.... trust me...... solo to the top of the world is really really tough... how well gaurav has shot it is beyond point.... gaurav.... you deserve a great round of applause just for the the accomplishment of doing a solo ride to LEH. ... will try it next june ..... solo..... to the top of the world..... gaurav.... your path will be trailed again.... MUmbai.... Ladhakh... mumbai....... | |
| Author: K.K.Chauhan | Posted: Jul 26, 2009 |
AN EAGLE EYE..... | |
| You got an eagle eye, which helped you in vediography and rideing your Bullet Royal Enfield,,,,,,,,,, thats good no excelent no fantastic, i think i have no words to describe it, but it is amazing........ again i apreciate your eye on the whole tour....... best of luck for your future........ waiting for your next adventure film........ HONESTLY AMAZING....... | |
| Author: SALIM KHAN | Posted: Jul 22, 2009 |
Thanks | |
| Dear Manoj and the rest of the "One Crazy Ride" crew, Sylvia & I loved your film and thanks for sharing your adventures with us... We think it is amazing what you all do on the British motorcycles... We have enough trouble getting around off road on our Dual Sport bikes... Sylvia wishes Nicky lived near by so she would have another female to ride with... If you ever come this way, we would enjoy taking you on a tour of our neck of the woods... We'll supply the bikes... Lan & Sylvia Port Orchard, Washington, USA | |
| Author: Lan Johnson | Posted: Jul 10, 2009 |
great work | |
| After ordering two of the same DVD's instead of one of each DVD by mistake, they contacted me and solve the problem very fast and perfect. I received the DVD's earlier than expected in a safe package. I am going to advice everybody interested, thank you very much. | |
| Author: Cetin Kiymet | Posted: Jul 7, 2009 |
Stunning and very humbling! | |
| I have just watched the trailers for both films here and have been brought to tears of joy at the shear beauty of your country, I am humbled by it all. Very well done to everyone concerned in the making of these films and my heart felt wishes to every last one of you. I will pass on the word to all my friends and some to buy copies of these wondrous adventures on two wheels in India, Amazing! James. A. Jaffrey Co-Owner & Director. The Aftercare Company U.K. W6 Chester Enterprise Centre Hoole Bridge Chester England CH2 3NE www.tattooaftercare.co.uk www.Myspace/tattooaftercare Visit us on Facebook.com | |
| Author: James Jaffrey | Posted: Jul 6, 2009 |
One Crazy Ride.. Not Crazy At All | |
| If you thought Riding Solo was good.. hold onto your hat, or should I say, your throttle. Gauav has an amazing artful eye and captures moments of movement that will overwhelm your senses. I couldn't just watch the video once through.. I had to watch it twice immediately. I must admit, his moments of riding solo are priceless. His story telling ways are unmatched and his choices for road routes would curl anyones hair. There is just something about his quiet strength and persistence that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The One Crazy Ride Team pulls together to give us all the adventure on film we only wish we could experience. I will never tire of watching One Crazy Ride or Riding Solo to the Top of the World. You can't help but become a Gauav fan and cheer loudly for his success. I am looking forward to his next adventure on film. It can't come soon enough. Judy Mirro, President Women's Riding School www.womensridingschool.com visit us on facebook | |
| Author: Judy Mirro, President WRS | Posted: Jul 1, 2009 |
Riding Solo To The Top Of The World | |
| Just watched "Riding Solo" the other night, and absolutely loved it -- fantastic camera work, and a wonderful story of adventure in a land set apart from the rest of the world. Beautifully written, videoed and photographed, edited and narrated. Thank you for an excelent adventure -- I'm looking forward to "One Crazy Ride"! Look for a review of each movie on my column -- coming soon! Mark Mark Poesch DC Motorcycle Travel Examiner http://www.examiner.com/x-2294-DC-Motorcycle-Travel-Examiner | |
| Author: DC Motorcycle Travel Examiner | Posted: Jun 9, 2009 |
U R a ride.....rider......ridest.....! | |
| Just watched the trailor. What a mind blowing locations and taking. I would whole heartedly appreciate you for work and enthu towards it. I am also a mad rider but I feel jelous seeing ur adventures. The movie trailer is AWESOME. I am gonna purchase the DVD very soon and watch the complete movie. Every second of movie is interesting and I also notice the pain you had for shooting it solo. The places and roads are superb. The ghat turns and the places where you fixed the camera is very very impressive. On the other end, the editing and sound is making me purchase your DVD. Keep rocking and I hope you will have many more movies this way and all the best for future. With loads of thanks.... | |
| Author: Phani | Posted: Jun 8, 2009 |
Different part of the world | |
| Received the DVD in great packing. A great film. Showed me a part of the world which I will most likely never see. Well worth watching. Only weakness would be a better sound track. Thanks for sharing your adventure. | |
| Author: Tad | Posted: Jun 7, 2009 |
YEEEEEEE! | |
| WAUW! What a great experience to watch the two DVD's. We simply had to watch them right after each other. Thank you so much for putting so much effort into filming your rides. When watching the "Riding Solo" DVD we kept saying over and over again: "wauw and he is doing all the shooting himself! Incredible!" I just couldn't believe Gauav's courage when passing the bridge in "One Crazy Ride" Thank you for being such a great inspiration and for documenting parts of the world that is so remote and different from our ways. We watched the DVD's for the first time tonight, but it will for sure not be the last. Henriette | |
| Author: Henriette Thiim, Denmark | Posted: Jun 3, 2009 |
Fabulous Films | |
| Hello Gaurav and the 60KPH Crew, I ordered both DVD's and was delighted to receive them in perfect condition and much sooner than I had expected. They were packed superbly! Both DVD's are inspirational, magnificent, beautifully filmed (great work Gauav), funny and engaging. Anyone thinking of ordering the films - don't hesitate - just do it. Many thanks. | |
| Author: Nick Adams | Posted: May 24, 2009 |
ONE CRAZY GUY.. one crazy opinion | |
| as the name says indeed its being about crazy and the documentary was just fantastic. any ride is not to be compared to another so i wont compare with it riding solo. Destination's are different and situations are also different the only thing that wont change is the ONE MAN SHOW. hats off for this... waiting for your other RIDES. i would like to see all the footage and coverages.. uncut if possible in an extra edition DVD... coz i am sure u guys would have exhausted yourself completely to get to this journey. its just not a single day when you woke up early to shoot a sunrise i am sure u've done it probably every day and shown the one you like of all the one's shot. seriously willing you to release a set of 2 DVD for every movie. one is the edited and the other one is a uncut version featuring everything.... | |
| Author: VARUN PARIKH | Posted: May 22, 2009 |
You did it again! | |
| 'One Crazy Ride' is just as good as riding solo to the top of the world. It has some group riding and solo riding as well! Fabulous job guys! | |
| Author: Alberto - BC, Canada. | Posted: May 3, 2009 |
We loved your film | |
| My wife and I loved your film, One Crazy Ride. The shots over the bidge was amazing. I have ridin motorcycles in the USA the majority of my 60 years of life. I am not sure I would acept the challenge to cross that bridge on a motorbike. What an amazing film project. Thank You for taking us along. I am looking foward to your next adventure. | |
| Author: John and Suzette James | Posted: Apr 21, 2009 |
Congratulations | |
| Thank you for capturing not just the moments and spectacular landscape but the wonderful people of Arunachal . Your documentary made us sad for Sobby and his bike, joyous with Nicky blowing bubbles, marvel at the wonders of engineering with Vinod, pensive with Sanjeev and admire Gaurav's determination to go to the end of the road. aloha Ritabelle | |
| Author: Ritabelle | Posted: Apr 14, 2009 |
Fantastic | |
| Just finished watching ONE CRAZY RIDE. All I can say is great movie. Enjoyed it as much as RIDING SOLO. Keep making them and I will keep buying them. Good luck on any future films. Andy New Mexico USA | |
| Author: Andy De La O | Posted: Apr 13, 2009 |
xtra ordinary | |
| hi gaurav, i enjoyed ur film very much i think thr r two kinds of people ie. the ordinary & the xtra ordinary ur film shows tht u r xtra ordinary in every respect, i am inclined to believe tht some power is helping you in all your endeavours. congratulationa A.K. HAZRA JABALPUR (M.P.) | |
| Author: a.k.hazra | Posted: Apr 10, 2009 |
Excellent movie | |
| I thoroughly enjoyed Riding Solo and have just ordered One Crazy Ride which I am looking forward to watching. In the first movie you demonstrate that its not about which type of tire you put on your bike or that its necessary to have a support vehicle but rather its about the adventure of going into the unknown, solo with an open mind and open heart, and that any bike can be make such a journey. I like your style of simplistic travel and on-the-road repairs which is what about adventure motorcycle riding is all about. I also enjoyed learning more about the nomadic way of life detailed in Riding Solo. Thanks and keep up the good work. cheers Andy Boston, MA | |
| Author: Andy Stewart | Posted: Apr 10, 2009 |
Riding Solo & One Crazy Ride | |
| Firstly, thank you for both the films. As motorcycle enthusiasts and English people living in the French Pyrenees we love mountain scenery, so both films were very much to our liking. Riding Solo to the Top of the World was our favourite, although we both enjoyed One Crazy Ride too. We thought that Gaurav perhaps worked a little better when filming on his own, maybe because he had more time with the setting up of the shots. The scenery in the latter part of One Crazy Ride was more to our eyes like Riding Solo to the Top of the World and all the better for it. It was interesting in both films to see the way that other people live, their daily lives and traditions, although in One Crazy Ride the graphic scene of the pig being killed was in our opinion very much unnecessary. In One Crazy Ride it was interesting to see other members of 60kph, their bikes and their reactions to the journey and the people and situations encountered as the miles passed by; they sure looked like a good friendly fun loving bunch. It was amazing where you managed to get the bikes on what appeared to be road tyres? but well done. Nothing to say about the music... EXCEPT it was BRILLIANT! the only negative was there wasn't enough of it in the second film. We're lookiing forward to your next production, keep up the good work and ride safe. | |
| Author: Wayne & Helen | Posted: Apr 6, 2009 |
Inspirational | |
| As someone who rides an Enfield Bullet on the nice smooth Tarmac back lanes of England, I'm so impressed with One Crazy Ride. The storyline, the filming, the production, the scenery, the bikes, the trails - everythnig about the film is engaging. It's so inspirational seeing what a group of enthusiasts can achieve with sheer guts and determination on old Bullets. The lenghts and effort Guarav Jani goes to get breathtaking footage is simply unbelievable. I laughed out loud when Guarav was explaining how he has to hand-hold the camera for the on-bike shots - all while he's trying to keep the bike on the roughest trail imaginable. I was so impressed, I've now ordered Riding Solo - and I'm eagerly waiting to hear about Guarav's next long-distance road trip film on his Bullet. | |
| Author: Gazza | Posted: Apr 2, 2009 |
Outstanding Production keep it up ! | |
| The content of this magnificant production will be hard to top as these are truley REAL riders doing what they love. Adventure is the key word in this One Crazy Ride video and If I ever have the chance to return to East asia to Ride I plan on looking this great groupe of Explorers up for a good Chat and maybe a Ride in the Bush If I may be so fortunate. I lead motorcycle tours in the northwestern US and can appreciate what sacrafices these adventurers have undergone to make this video possible for all of us viewers to enjoy.I have to rate this as a Strong 9 out of 10. Keep up the great work guys and Nicki too ! I look forward to viewing the Riding solo to the top of the world when I get Back home to Montana this spring! Thank You for a great hour and a half of Pure Entertainment. Rocky Shriver | |
| Author: Rocky Shriver | Posted: Apr 1, 2009 |
A Fine Ride and Film | |
| In January I received an e-mail from Dirt Track Productions announcing the upcoming release of, and the opportunity to purchase a copy of, their latest DVD, One Crazy Ride. These are the same folks that, a few years ago produced, Riding Solo to the Top of the World. I immediately ordered a copy of One Crazy Ride with the expectation it would equal or surpass Riding Solo to the Top of the World. I was not disappointed. Both DVDs are well worth getting and watching. Maybe watching again and again. Today it's late March and I'm inside with a blizzard carrying on in this part of the country. The timing of delivery was good as I only received the DVD last Friday on 27 March. It was sent from India on 25 February and it looks like customs took their time clearing it. It was worth the wait. A few years ago my Riding Solo DVD was delayed in delivery too. But that again was the delivery system and not Dirt Track Productions. In both cases I contacted them and received prompt courteous replies and a willingness to quickly dispatch a replacement copy to me. In each case the original DVD showed within a day of making arrangements for the replacement so I was able to cancel the need. One Crazy Ride has very well timed subtitles which I found helpful through most of the film. This film is more about the ride than Riding Solo which was more about the journey, people and cultures encountered along the way. Five friends, four men and one women, all belonging to the same motorcycle club decide to ride across uncharted roads in the Himalayan state of Arunachal Pradesh which is in Northeast India. They encounter mechanical issues, tribal villages, military outposts, raging rivers, dry river beds full of rocks, mud, rutted tracks and other special obstacles. Personal challenges abound as riders push their personal limits and expectations. This is a ride on road bikes, not dual-sport bikes and they are small displacement and overloaded in all cases. The film is an award winning documentary and captures the nature of the ride and a wonderful area most of mankind will never experience in person. It is well worth taking the time to purchase for your motorcycling library and enjoying with family and friends. I think even people not enthralled with motorcycle travel will find this worth their time as they experience One Crazy Ride. You can learn more about One Crazy Ride, Riding Solo to the Top of the World and Dirt Track Productions at: www.dirttrackproductions.com Hope you have an opportunity to enjoy this film. Best, Jeff 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: Mar 30, 2009 |
Great, but Could Be Better | |
| I enjoyed viewing both of your DVDs and marvel at the terrain you tackle with the lightest of gear. Here in the USA we constantly debate the merits of this bike over that, type of tires etc that you HAVE to HAVE to venture off road. You, and your cohorts, show that what you really need to do is stop debating and get out there and ride. Bravo! How could the film be better yet? I would like to see more detail on technical stuff. What bikes were you riding? I think I discerned at least a few Royal Enfields with one a 500cc. What about your tires? Was it a cost issue that kept you from more aggressive tires? And what about the mechanical problems you had. I understood a burnt or broken valve but what were the others and how did you get around not having a support vehicle. And finally, how is it the one rider who left you because of a "broken" motorcycle reappeared. What did he do to get back with you? Overall, a good show. One I recommend to others who enjoy seeing how others "adventure tour" in a robust way. | |
| Author: Bob Sullivan | Posted: Mar 27, 2009 |
Excellent Adventure! | |
| I have just finished watching One Crazy Ride and it is a lot of fun. I don't think it is as well done as Riding to the Top of the World but is fun to watch none-the-less. The emotions and spirit of adventure in Riding to the Top came through very clearly but because One Crazy Ride is a group ride we get more insight into the group dynamics and less raw emotion. Still, the photography is excellent and the adventure is palpably real. I have no regrets buying either DVD and will continue to look for more productions from Dirt Track! Way to go guys and gals. | |
| Author: shawn | Posted: Mar 26, 2009 |
Awesome Documentary!!!! | |
| Hi Gaurav, I have seen the documentary ...it was awesome and the area which you covered is very remote ,Truely commendable job which you have done.... | |
| Author: Varun | Posted: Mar 26, 2009 |
Experience of a Life time | |
| Gaurav: I am a good friend of your brother Dr. Uday Jani. Since I am friend of your family, I believe in giving you contructive criticism. 1. The documentary was very good. I can understand the excitement and emotions of your friends and intial failures of the team due to motor bikes having problems and running out of time. 2. Your second leg of the journey was 1000 time better then that with your friends. This is where your emotions and single ride reminds me of your first documentary which was excellent. 3. Dirt Bikes and motorcycles are two different things. A Dirt Bike would not perform like a motorcycle and will not be able to carry the weight you guys were carrying on the bike. 4. The first half of the documentary was good, but mostly small talk. The sceneriy was excellent. 5. The last half of the documentary was the Academy Award winner. 6. As for word of the mouth I have sent the name of your documentary to over 100 friends of mine. The best way to sell these documentary shows are to US/Canadian Public libraries, NetFlix, Red Box sold in all shopping centers, Department stores, and the grocery stores in USA. Maybe your Brother can hire a film distributor and promote your documentary. Good Job Gaurav Jani, good luck and best wishes. One more thing, and don't be pissed, but your first documentary was a real classic one. Once again Excellent work. Adi M. J. Maneckshaw --- 3/25/09 | |
| Author: Adi M. J. Maneckshaw | Posted: Mar 25, 2009 |
Feeling the journey | |
| Hi Gaurav, I had heard each moment of the One crazy ride from Sanju, and I can say that them movie portrays the details, emotions, nature, excitement, as true as possible. Its a gr8 job done. Wish I could do anything as crazy as that. Even my little kids were excited to see the movie. Good luck. Sunil | |
| Author: Sunil Sharma | Posted: Mar 16, 2009 |
Loved the Crazy Ride! | |
| One Crazy Ride had big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps or "Riding Solo." Loved every minute of it! Specially seeing Gaurav literally out of breath after crossing the bridge; if that is not true emotion over physical exertion, then I don't what is. That isn't just the craziest thing he may have done; it is the craziest thing I've seen. It is amazing to see that there are indeed roads that should be remapped, and more amazing to see that Gaurav is doing it, not on-board a purpose-built 4-wheel drive vehicle, but a 350cc Royal Enfield! Insanity! It is a great movie. CONGRATULATIONS! | |
| Author: Adrian | Posted: Mar 15, 2009 |
Feedback - One Crazy Ride | |
| Dear Gaurav, What a film! Very inspiring and the one that cultivates a daring in a person. I have learnt a new way of enriching the life. I have done some riding in South India, but this is something impossible made possible. I am sure this film will add a new perspective in peoples lives. This was just not about challenging the elements, but challenging self. I have been reminded once again of the quote "Impossible is nothing". Keep riding Gaurav. Take good care of your health too. Regards, Jaideep | |
| Author: Jaideep | Posted: Mar 8, 2009 |
Crazy Ride | |
| The Crazy Ride was a very down to earth ride by likeable and down to earth people. It should give new hope to people who think they can only travel to new horizons if they have a GS and unlimited back up. Thanks guys, we loved every minute of it. | |
| Author: Tony Melling Japan | Posted: Mar 8, 2009 |
RIDING SOLO or CRAZY RIDE | |
| Simply Great !!! What can I say after watching three times Riding Solo and Crazy Ride ??? I just saw before only the "Long Way Round" film and I though that was so extremely ! But now I really can say what is really extremely ! your films are the most amazing, amusing, I can't say one is better than the other... They show the real spirit of riding...and I recognise my free spirit of riding by mountainbike ! Thank you for realized it ! Good luck for the next one ! | |
| Author: Wladi | Posted: Mar 6, 2009 |
Riding Solo | |
| I just had the pleasure of viewing Riding Solo with my family & everyone loved it despite the fact that none of them are bikers! I own & operate a movie theatre here in Canada and see a LOT of films from independent documentaries to high budget Hollywood fare and this film certainly ranks at the top in terms of overall quality & appeal for a small-scale, independent production. The choice of camera views & composition & incredibly well chosen, the editing is superb and the quality is quite amazing given the obvious need to keep the gear light and compact. I would love to include this in our next year's annual film festival and am looking forward to sharing it with the community at large. Can't wait to see One Crazy Ride! | |
| Author: Michael Levy | Posted: Mar 5, 2009 |
Crazy Ride | |
| Amazing! i have just finished watching One crazy ride it was the most amazing visual journey i think you could possibly have without completing the ride in person i hope that this isnt the last we will see of you and your riding companions. you only reinforce that it doesnt matter what bike you ride as long as you do just that with it ! ride safe! | |
| Author: Rocksteady | Posted: Mar 5, 2009 |
crazy ride | |
| Got your latest offering ,crazy ride and enjoyed it immensely, good filming ,and an enjoyable band of crazy bastards, with you. nice to see a part of the world that is so unspoilt, and not enough of indias great country side shown world wide on Tv. Look forward to your next adventure.keep up the good work all the best Phill | |
| Author: phill Ollard | Posted: Mar 5, 2009 |
AMazing rides | |
| Hi, I am also a biker and have done small rides (Delhi-Jaipur, Delhi-Kasauli, Delhi-Lansdowne, Delhi-Rajaji National Park). Of course, I aspire to do much more, and I really take heart from the stuff you guys do. I also keep visiting 60kph.com and would really love to be a member of the group. I have purchased both Riding Solo and One Crazy Ride through your website and have thoroguhly enjoyed viewing both. Here are things I liked about both documentaries. 1. This is hardcore biking, where it's about the biker, the road, and the bike more than it's about looking cool and hip. this is where the NDTV road trip fails to impress me. Those guys look like kids compared to you fellas. 2. Amazing grit displayed by everybody. Again solid substance, no show. 3. Great filming style! I know that it involves tremendous hard work, and I respect that. That grit shows in every scene and makes the experience really come alive and this is as authentic as it gets. 4. No yuppie stuff! You don't know how much of a relief that is. You guys come across as simple men with strong hearts and fortitude. 5. Amazing routes! You have chosen the best of the land! 6. The narrative switches between the ride, the riders, the terrain, and the people you meet in a seamless manner, delving just long enough to gain attention and retain interest. 7. Considering you didn't have a film crew, the cinematography is almost unbelievable ! Seriously, consider raising the price of your DVDs! You deserve it! And, hope to ride with you guys someday! All the respect, Rajat | |
| Author: Rajat | Posted: Feb 26, 2009 |
A journey of Amazement | |
| Man I loved Riding solo to the top of the world. So much so that I send a copy of that to my brother in US. Now I have pre ordered Crazy Ride. and cant wait to watch it. If it is as good as the last one I will surely send it to my brother. My plan is I can convince my brother one day to come down and maybe we can make a trip like that to those places. I am both amazed and amused by the whole thing. Gaurav takes the trip in a spiritual way. its more like a journey of the spirit. This is what we came to do on this planet anyways to experience and to share the experience. Its just that we get bogged down with daily life so much that we forget that there is a world outside the cities. | |
| Author: Anindya | Posted: Feb 24, 2009 |
Riding Solo/ Crazy Ride | |
| A friend and fellow biker came across 'Riding Solo' in a catalogue and we ordered ithe DVD not realising what an inspiiring and beautifully filmed tale he had chanced upon. In my youth, I visited India from Britain, journeying slowly and impecuniously.. as did my wife on her own journey subsequenly in India and Nepal.. after which we met in London. In my professional life I have travelled in Antarctica and elsewhere in many parts of the world. That was all 25 years ago since when raising our family and living our lives has made it all a faint dream. But although I'll never return to Antarctica, your film has reminded me that it is possible, even as a rapidly ageing biker, to travel again in wonderful and remote places.. Thanks for such a marvelously shot and sensitive film in 'Riding Solo'. I am looking forward immensely to receiving 'One Crazy Ride', just ordered, to provide further inspiration and keep the dream going for the next few years til I can give myself the time to travel again. And as the proud owner of a 350 Bullet, I know how and where I'll be doing it !.. and judging by the trailer, 'One Crazy Ride' might even provide the inspiration for my wife to join me on a long dreamt of journey as well ! Thanks.. Vince in Chichester, England | |
| Author: Vincent Powell | Posted: Feb 24, 2009 |
Crazy Ride | |
| Hi Gaurav, You really are an inspiration to many like me. I dream of doing rides like these some day. I have ordered both the videos you have made. Hope your latest film achieves many more accolades Thanks, Deepak | |
| Author: Deepak | Posted: Feb 24, 2009 |
Solo | |
| Hello, I have just received and watched Riding Solo with my friends and neighbors. We were all delighted and enlightened with the production, dialogue and beautiful scenery. We cannot wait to receive One Crazy Ride! Thank you for your great work and entertainment. Donn in Oregon | |
| Author: Donn Tanner | Posted: Feb 15, 2009 |
i felt that... | |
| hai, its really great...i just imagine these things ... but you people, did that ... travel is an art.....you are well in that art........making a new relationship with unknown people (in your film) is great..... on 13th frame ,the camera is panning....how you shoot that ? while you are in the frame(riding solo _trailer) on the whole its nice.... | |
| Author: vinodh B | Posted: Feb 9, 2009 |
Swarga che Darshan | |
| I do not know that if any body can go to swarg, enjoy it & return back to earth. But All of you have done it. Your Harts is so great that you brought back few drops of amrut in the form of video for us on earth. Pride of India | |
| Author: Sarang Mahajan | Posted: Jan 29, 2009 |
Better Than Expected | |
| Had expected a well intentioned but amateurish travelog but got a nice surprise. It was very well done and offered insight to the geography, topography and cultures along the way. What I found most enjoyable was getting a glimpse of the value systems of the people encountered. I found particularly encouraging the rider's adaptability, perserverance and appreciation of the people he met. I even had some friends over to see it. | |
| Author: John P. Petrocelli | Posted: Jan 26, 2009 |
Riding Solo | |
| This is a great movie, it is what motorcycling is truly about. I've ordered a few copy's to give to friends and everyone loves the film... Just pre-ordered One Crazy Ride and cant wait to watch it. Great work guys!! | |
| Author: Adam Shelor | Posted: Jan 20, 2009 |
Perfect Example | |
| Have watched riding solo many a times and seen the trailer of ocr. Just seeing is believing. I hope that every youth of our nation watches these films and takes the pledge of traveling all the corners of our motherland to know about the natural bio - diversity and interact with various locals of our nation. To u as a TEAM i wish you all the very best and hope that all your endeavours bring a lot of grace to your future rides. | |
| Author: Sachin Chavan | Posted: Jan 14, 2009 |
can not wait | |
| having seen RIDING SOLO numerous times over and having followed it up with a ride to ladakh last year, I just can not wait for the release of OCR. I have seen the trailers and am just going crazy waiting for OCR. I wish Gaurav and his team all the best and hope that u guys keep up the good work. | |
| Author: col ajay k raina | Posted: Jan 12, 2009 |
Loved the preview | |
| I own "Riding Solo" and loved it. It is rare to see true film, at its best. Gaurav is a fantastic director with a keen eye for framing and capturing scenery and true life. The preview looks a bit more polished than "Riding Solo", which does not discredit his previous work. It simply states that this wonderful director will continue to amaze and astound us. I have pre-ordered and cannot wait for "One Crazy Ride"! | |
| Author: Keith Martinson | Posted: Jan 7, 2009 |
Good Documentary/ I've seen both | |
| I have the Riding Solo to the top of the world and it is a breathtaking adventure and a very touching documentary. I am also one of the fortunate ones who has seen the uncut version of One Crazy Ride and it is truly a Crazy Ride which again makes you emotional at times. Keep up the Good Work Gaurav. | |
| Author: Justice | Posted: Jan 7, 2009 |
One Crazy Wait | |
| Once again, a job well done! I wonder what took you guys for ever to get this movie out!!! I have been eagerly waiting for almost a year now... I am sure the movie is gonna cheer up my sentiments, boost the morale in this otherwise gloomy phase... Look forward to the full movie! The teaser has done its job... raised the anxiety levels... Cheers! | |
| Author: Dheeraj | Posted: Jan 7, 2009 |
Wonderful Trailer | |
| 60kph team: Wonderful trailer. I pre-ordered and can't wait for your new DVD. You are an amazing bunch of riders not to mention excellent videographers, producers and directors. Riding to the Top is one of the best documentaries I've ever seen, not only because of its message but also because of the diligent and amazing effort of Gaurav, so I am really looking forward to this DVD. It will be shown to our club, the Twisted Shaft Motorcycle Club, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Thanks for the news about the trailer. --Doug | |
| Author: Doug Moench | Posted: Jan 6, 2009 |
Waiting for One Crazy Ride | |
| The trailer of 'One Crazy Ride' looks great! Eagerly waiting to watch the entire film. Keep up the good work! Sunil | |
| Author: Sunil Sharma | Posted: Jan 2, 2009 |
Superb Ride and Lovely Movie | |
| I saw the movie Riding Solo .... and i must say what an awesome movie it is.. marvellous.... the bike ride, the natural beauty captured by Gaurav Jani is just out of the world... the very idea of travelling solo in a place where there are hardly any people, capturing them, knowing them and enjoying the beauty of nature ... oh wow.. what do i say... hats off to the entire team... looking forward to your | |
| Author: Sumeet | Posted: Dec 23, 2008 |
Love Riding Solo, Awaiting One Crazy Ride | |
| I was looking for some videos on Ladakh and accidentally I found Riding Solo video on You Tube. I watched the video and instantly felt in love with it. I showed the video to my wife and then instantly ordered the DVD. I live in Chicago and when I ordered the DVD it was almost January. I got the DVD in about 2 weeks but the postman didn't deliver it as there was no one to receive it at my place. I was working at hospital on that day and as soon as I came home, I saw a receipt about the failed delivery attempt. I called my wife and then we both took a train and a bus and went to the post-office in a hurry. It was below freezing and snowing hard that day. Just before the post-office got closed, I got the DVD. Came home and watched it. I must say, it was well worth all the running that I did to obtain it from post-office. I have watched it since 1000 times. I just can't get over it. It is so beautifully shot. Mesmerizing and magnificent. I gave this DVD to my friends who love to travel and they loved it so much that some of them also ordered it. Now I am awaiting One Crazy Ride from the day I watched Riding Solo. I just sent an email to you Gaurav about release of One Crazy Ride. I hope you release it soon by December end. I saw some photos on 60kph and the scenery was breath taking. Champion work friends. You deserve a standing ovation. Love you all. Thank you so much in advance for One Crazy Ride. Waiting to get one for myself. Love Parth | |
| Author: Dr. Parth Mehta | Posted: Nov 23, 2008 |
OCR release in December | |
| Dear John, If everything goes as planned, One Crazy Ride will be out by December end. You can join our mailing list for us to notify you about the release. Regards, Dirt Track Productions | |
| Author: Dirt Track Productions | Posted: Nov 11, 2008 |
One Crazy Ride release date? | |
| When will "One Crazy Ride" be released? I've been looking forward to this film ever since I saw "Riding Solo", which I've now watched scores of times! I'm looking forward to seeing a riding experience from India. I want to go there and ride one day. | |
| Author: john | Posted: Nov 5, 2008 |
HATZ OFF .... | |
| Well ..... I'm a student from PSG COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCE , COIMBATORE ...... We actually had the opportunity to watch this documentary amidst the presence of Director K.Hariharan ..... Firstly AMAZIN .... For the first five to ten minutes i was wondering how jobless a guy would be to make such a documentary ..... Then as time passed by the whole audience was thunder struck ..... This film is kinda very hard to forget ..... I really made sure i don take my eyes of the screen ..... Would love to have a copy ..... GREAT WORK ..... ADIOS ..... | |
| Author: J.S.Kaarthic | Posted: Oct 10, 2008 |
a frame a virgin light | |
| amazing! i was wonder struck when i watched "Nanook of the north" which is is credited as the first documentary film.after 100 years another film to remember i am thunder struck! we watched the film along with Director K.Hariharan @ (psgcas coimbatore) we neither dropped an eyelid nor a single frame. great work! | |
| Author: bojan vengatesh | Posted: Oct 10, 2008 |
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 should also mention that I ordered the DVD on line and was thrilled at the speed and efficiency of the service. It was here within days, very well packed - a thoroughly professional effort. Order with confidence! :)) Pat REble in Perth, Western Australia | |
| Author: Pat REble | Posted: Nov 21, 2006 |
Wow! | |
| I heard about this DVD through the Royal Enfield Club of Australia. I own a Bullet 500 Classic with a sidecar, so the bike was of interest in itself. I had also just watched The Long Way Round, where two well equipped motorcyclists had tackled a tough route from London to New York. The comparison was amazing. With no GPS, no support crew, no sponsorship, no backing, and with not even a camera man, this amazing individual tackled formidable terrain all by himself! I can see myself watching this DVD over and over - the scenery was so wonderful I wanted to constantly stop the movie and just look, and I kept thinking, how did he film that bit? It is an amazing achievement. Congratulations to the editing team as well as there must have been some very hard choices to get it all down to 90 minutes. This DVD deserves heaps of awards. It is truly inspirational. :)) Pat REble in Perth, Western Australia | |
| Author: Pat REble | Posted: Nov 21, 2006 |
Riding solo to the top of the World | |
| I bought this DVD primarilly as I have an avid interest in the Bullet motorcycle, I own a 500 De Luxe. What I have recieved from this work of art is however much more than just gratification about my favourite motorcycle! I think that Gaurav has produced a unique and spellbinding video here, I really felt that I was engaged in the travel and the dialogue whilst watching. I felt the anticipation of loading the Bull up for the epic journey, and being from England I had no real knowledge of just how epic it would really be! I was fascinated to see the workshop knock up modifications to the carrying frame on the bike, and was amazed to see how much she could carry! Mine has a pampered existance in comparison. The roads in the beginning of the film were a surprise to me, and I felt they looked good quality. This soon changed as Gaurav swapped onto the back roads. The scenery was wonderfull, the small brightly lit village street at night was magical, I wanted to see even more of this! But the journey and the reason for the journey was clearly the dramatic and majestic expanses of the plateu that lay ahead! The religious ceremony was marvellous, the trumpets and the swirling dancers, I appreciated the balance of the dialogue and felt that Gaurav allowed the landscape and surroundings speak also. The bike was wonderfull, the mellow thump as he passed by. And we got to understand also the sheer difficulty of the task of filming oneself! The relationships Gaurav struck up with the people that came through with warmth and reality, unlike many big budget fake looking documentaries. I felt this was reality, regadless of my lack of knowledge, the feeling was real! I felt sad also to be saying goodbye to that remarkable man and his family. All this has left me with a greater thirst for the beauty and the uniqueness that India has to offer, I want to see towns, villages, cities, more and diverse peoples, a ride out of one of the major clubs would be superb if done in the same superb quality and highly effective way of this production, more I say! I felt the surge of religion also, and how could anyone not be overwhelemed by the prayer meeting resulting in rain that is needed so badly by the people and their animals? There is really so much more to say, there really are more points of interest and delight in this film that my limited ability as a reviewer will allow me to adequetely communicate to any prospective purchaser, all I can say is, if you dont yet have it, GET IT! :) | |
| Author: Malcolm Fisher | Posted: Nov 21, 2006 |
Amazing!! Hat's Off to Jani | |
| I heard about this ride from one of the well know person of 60kph & class mate of mine, Sanju. Before i have seen the documentary, i already had a picture of Jani, as i have know him a bit from all that Sanju has told me, and shown me the trailer of the documentary. Since that day i was too much curious, to just see this extraordinary ride to Changthang Plateau. Yesterday was a great weekend for me, as i got the chance to see the whole of this extraordinary ride of Jani from the first copy of the "Riding Solo...". Riding Solo, is such an amazing documentary that i have, and probably most of us would have, never seen or thought of in our wildest of dreams. It is such an amazing documentary that i saw it twice yesterday and, that just made me said, "Hatt's Off !!! - Jani, you're awesome". God Bless You. | |
| Author: Sanjay Sharma | Posted: Nov 19, 2006 |
hats off to Gaurav | |
| Its been long since i been waiting for this dvd after seeing the trailors , but i must say all this waiting was worth it . Totally outstandin work by Gaurav , very nice to such small details he came up with changthang and the people out there . Hats off to Gaurav . I hope to ride with u someday. | |
| Author: kamal rana | Posted: Nov 18, 2006 |
From A Friend | |
| I've known Gaurav Jani since our days in Ahmedabad (India). He always wanted to do something different. Always was a crazy one of the lot. In those days I remember he rode a kinetic Honda and his mother used to be worried about him on a 2 wheeler. I am proud to have spent the days and nights with a great friend and a very skilled director. Being a automobile enthusiast and rider myself I truly value his film. It is hard to do a great job like this and touching so many lives a the same time. I can now say I haven't seen even 10 % of India yet. Keep it up Gaurav. Looking forward to order the DVD soon and maybe seeing you maybe here in U.S or Bombay. I encourage everybody to keep checking the website 60kph.com for more stories and beautiful pictures. Thankyou Justice Milwaukee, Wisconsin (United states) | |
| Author: Justice | Posted: Nov 17, 2006 |
Viewed at the IAAC Film Festival in NYC | |
| I traveled to NYC with some of my family to view the film at the IAAC Film Festival, and the trip was well worthwhile. The journey Gaurav took was extraordinary, considering the climate, the terrain, and the conditions he endured. The fact that he took it on a m/c, a 350cc Enfield no less, made it all that more remarkable. That feat alone, to me anyway, fulfilled what I had anticipated and had driven all that distance to see. What I did not anticipate was what took place during his journey, especially the interaction with the people of this nomadic tribe (the Chang pas) that he met. The way he presented their hospitality and the score that backed up some of those scenes was very emotional. This is an exceptional piece or work and I would encourage everyone to see it if given the opportunity. Now that the DVD is released, you have no excuse. Guy Young Richmond, VA | |
| Author: Guy Young | Posted: Nov 17, 2006 |
From the Travelogue | |
| Got to see the Bangalore screening of this wonderful piece of work. A journey into a place not known well to all and into the hearts of a group of people, the changpas, eventually gaining acceptance into their lives, joys and sorrows is a moving story. Jani's journey takes us to places few of us can go and shares experiences few of us will ever know. The wonderful editing and sound track has enhanced this piece of work like the proverbial icing. I was really happy to hear about Discovery's interest in your film. Do keep up the great work and will be waiting for lots more in the years to come. Best Regards, Rajiv www.thetravelogue.com | |
| Author: Rajiv | Posted: Nov 10, 2006 |
Review from Backroads Motorcycle Tourmagazine | |
| I attended the US debut of Riding Solo... on November 4th at the Maya Deren Theatre, NYC. A number of Backroads readers were also in attendance. The film is an exquisite look at a tiny and remote region of the Earth called the Chanthang Plateau. What started out as an exciting motorcycle adventure for the viewers transformed into an awakening and journey into a people and culture that few in the audience even knew existed. Their basic life, their hardships and their joys were all captured by Jani with interest and compassion. I found myself amazed at how Jani never seemed to tire of this daunting task of capturing a film like this by himself. Riding Solo To The Top Of the World is a magical film, artfully combining ancient culture, magnificent topography and with enough motorcycle adventure to satisfy the most earnest rider. After the film I was honored to lead a panel discussion with the filmmaker’s brother and sister where they answered questions from both myself and the audience. Brian Rathjen, Publisher, Backroads Motorcycle Tourmagazine. http://www.backroadsusa.com http://www.cafepress.com/bkrdsmagazine | |
| Author: Brian Rathjen | Posted: Nov 9, 2006 |
Congratulations | |
| I haven't watched your film yet, but have heard much about it. I read your story about the journey and the film-making here on this site. I am very impressed. I want to tell you that you are a source of inspiration for me. I read your story and think about getting back to all the non-academic, non-professional thrills I have had in my life. I congratulate you for this wonderful journey. | |
| Author: Pragati | Posted: Nov 7, 2006 |
NY Premiere - Kudos | |
| Enjoyed watching the documentary on a big screen. Still amazed by your talent and perseverance to complete this project in such a hostile environment. | |
| Author: Kamal | Posted: Nov 7, 2006 |
Riding Solo viewed in New York | |
| I traveled with friends to New York City to view your movie at the the 2006 Indo American Arts Council Film Festival. Your motorcycle journey depicted in the film was truly wonderful and I envy you. Although some of my motorcycle trips were of similar distances, none could compare with what you experienced. I enjoyed the film. It was very well done, especially considering the hardships of being a one-man crew. This alone made the film and your journey very amazing. The film depicts many of your experiences during the journey and I was able to sense your joy in spending time with the Chang Pas. From the perspective of a motorcycle enthusiast, I would have liked for the film to include more about the actual riding and traveling alone in this remote location by motorcycle, including problems you encountered. I look forward to availability of the DVD here in the United States. This is a film that I would like to have in my collection. Thank you for your efforts in creating a wonderful film and I look forward to viewing your future projects. | |
| Author: Steven Smith | Posted: Nov 6, 2006 |
On Riding Solo | |
| I saw Riding Solo at the Mumbai Film Festival, 2006. The film resonates with a gutsy sincerity. There is a single-minded honesty and gritty determination that is obvious from the beginning to the end. As a filmmaker myself, I know that making any film is frought with challenges and huge doses of stress. To actually go out alone, into the unknown, (and Ladakh is sometimes so alien that it's like being on another planet!) and come back with this remarkable footage is definitely a bit crazy, but mostly, it is admirable. A successful film is when you come out of the theatre feeling that you've been part of an experience. Riding Solo is all of that and more. Here's hoping that you continue sharing your experiences with us, Gaurav. | |
| Author: Nrupen Madhvani | Posted: Nov 5, 2006 |
Review of Riding Solo | |
| We viewed this film at the Calgary Film Festival, September, 2006. It was a sell-out at the festival. We enjoyed it very much. When you realize it was made entirely by the film-maker, with no crew, it is even more of an accomplishment. The scenery, the clarity of the images and Gaurav Jani's sympathetic narration made it a film we won't soon forget. | |
| Author: Colleen and Gerhard | Posted: Nov 3, 2006 |
