Undoubtedly, there’s a unique thrill every time I swing my leg over my motorcycle, grip the handlebars, and fire up the 900 cc engine. The familiar sporty gurgle emanating from under me mildly put is simply electrifying, stirring an indescribable sense of excitement. A familiar warm feeling envelops me as realization dawns that the excitement that I feel is about the journey, the connection, and the sheer joy of the ride.
The moment I hit the open road; a liberating sense of freedom washes over me. The wind rushes past, cool against my face, mingling with the warmth of the sun. I can feel every curve of the road as I try to mimic my riding buddies ahead of me. There is absolute trust in the person ahead as I follow in his wake, taking the same lines and speed. Like a dancer, you find yourself inextricably drawn into this graceful dance as you bank and weave at speed. The mind by then has shut off to the external noises and is now acutely aware of the hum of the engine, which is more than just noise—it’s a heartbeat, syncing with one’s own breath.
We often don’t realize that riding a motorcycle demands mental sharpness and physical fitness, especially as weather conditions shift. On sunny days, the glare off the road can be blinding, requiring constant adjustments to maintain clear visibility. Heat often leads to fatigue. On the other hand, riding in the cold is equally excruciating and often uncomfortable, with the layers of clothes that one has to wear and the cold wind biting into your gloved hands. Rains bring with them their own challenges, with roads that are slippery when wet. Vehicles in our notoriously lax driving standards in our country can pose a serious challenge even in the most benign weather and riding conditions. All this begs the question: why then ride?
The answer to all this lies in the fact that beyond these everyday rides lies a dream etched deep in my heart—a wish to embark on a solo journey across India. To ride through bustling cities, serene villages, winding mountain roads, and vast coastal stretches. I yearn to experience the rich tapestry of cultures, savour diverse cuisines, and witness the vibrancy of colours and hues I undoubtedly will encounter. Each stop would be a story, each meeting a lesson, and each sunrise a fresh perspective. Gosh if that doesn’t do it for the soul, nothing else will I dare say.
This journey wouldn’t just be about the landscapes but also about self-discovery. I imagine the solitude of long stretches of road, where thoughts would surface uninvited, forcing me to confront fears, reminisce, address hopes and dreams that I’ve shelved away. In the vastness of open skies, I am sure there will be clarity, stripping away the clutter from my mind of an ordinary and routine life lived. The challenges—navigating unfamiliar roads, adapting to changes— I believe would test my resilience, teaching me patience, adaptability, and most importantly gratitude.
Life and health are finite. This realisation fuels my desire to make the most of every moment. I feel immense gratitude for the health and strength that allow me to undertake such journeys—to wake up each day, breathe, and have the physical ability to ride. Every kilometer covered, every breath of “fresh” air, and every horizon chased is a gift. This awareness turns each ride into a silent prayer of thanks, a heartfelt acknowledgment of life’s fragility and also beauty. I now look towards the ultimate journey that I hope to partake, when life and good health permit me to— riding across the length and breadth of our country.
Personally, riding is more than an adventure; it’s a meditation, a celebration, and a path to some very deep personal growth. Whether basking in the sun, navigating through a downpour, or chasing a dream across the country, this elusive ride is a chapter that needs to be written in the book called life. I hope I have the courage and the luck needed to do this in this lifetime.
