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| Image courtesy enfieldmotorcycles.in |
Ajit is a speech therapist from Pune. This book is about his love for his trusted Enfield, and his trips on it. Most notably, his 4,300 Km expedition from Pune to Jammu & Kashmir.What is laudable is that Ajit is not someone who would be expected to undertake such a crazy and arduous challenge. He is not a 20-something hipster. He has seen a better part of life, speaking of years. The very fact that this middle aged man with a family and commitments has done this - and most of it, riding solo, makes the book that much more special. This alone speaks tomes about his passion for riding, exploring and zest for life.
In the first part of the book, Ajit describes his road trip from Pune to Goa, and back - totalling around 1000Km. The tone of the book is set, and we know that this book will be an enjoyable read.
Using just the right number of words, Ajit takes us with him, painting very vividly the landscape, his thoughts and his interactions with people. The writing is very crisp and easy - no demanding words are used. This works optimally, as mere words cannot really do justice to nature's creations. We feel that we are riding along with Ajit, savouring the sights and contemplating his experiences while building on our own. Ajit has the gift of narration, is a wanderer by heart, and would make for jolly company, should one bump into him.
The tone is feel-good for most of the ride, except at Kashmir, the troubled paradise. Although stunningly beautiful, the atmosphere described is a tense one - life is lived from minute to minute. This experience alters Ajit's perception to life.
If this book will not inspire you to pack up and go riding, I do not know what will :) This book is the nudge, the influence which will quell any doubts lingering about the 'if', and make you act on the 'when' :) Explore, discover, learn.
*I do not own any of these images. All pictures courtesy their respective owners*
