Asutosh, Author at Cycle Tour India

How is the life of the blacksmith – Gadia lohar community people in India?

1 Comment / People, Rajhasthan / Asutosh

India, despite its progress since gaining independence, still grapples with deeply entrenched issues of casteism and the systematic suppression of backward communities. This is particularly evident in states like Rajasthan, where the shadows of caste-based discrimination loom large. From enduring the demeaning act of sitting on the ground before higher caste individuals to being forbidden from touching certain utensils, archaic practices persist in various forms.

During my extensive cycling journey across India, I gained first-hand insight into the plight of marginalized communities. It became evident that the barriers obstructing their growth and progress are profound. Among the many groups I encountered, the Gadia Lohar, originally blacksmiths tracing their lineage back to Maharana Pratap of Mewar in present-day southern Rajasthan, stood out with a unique and harrowing tale.

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Desert to dreams: how a school is transforming the life of children in Barmer, Rajasthan

People, Rajhasthan / Asutosh

In a world where education often takes the shape of a business, focusing on profit rather than purpose, finding schools genuinely dedicated to nurturing students’ dreams can be a challenge. Many educational institutions in India conform to established norms set by government bodies or aim for prestige, often overlooking the essence of true education. Education is more than a mere transfer of knowledge; it should empower young minds to comprehend life, tap into their human potential, and contribute to the world through their unique perspectives and innate talents.

During my extensive cycling journey across India, dedicated to highlighting the significance of education in broadening young minds, I encountered various schools. However, none stood out quite like Modern School, situated in the rural landscapes of Barmer, Rajasthan. Nestled in a desert region where access to quality education is limited, this institution has defied odds, surpassing the standards of many prestigious schools in more urbanized areas.

Under the stewardship of Dr. Mukesh Pachauri and Ms. Navneet Pachauri, Modern School was conceived with a clear vision: to impart knowledge with the intent of nurturing thoughtful individuals, not merely preparing a workforce for society. Establishing the school from the ground up in 2007, both Mr. and Mrs. Pachauri expressed their desire to celebrate childhood and education. In my brief yet insightful interaction with them, I gained profound understanding into the minds of individuals committed to selfless service and the innovative approaches they bring to the educational realm.

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Inside story of cricket betting from a man who works for a cricket betting site

Gujarat, People / Asutosh

Cricket betting, a pervasive issue deeply entrenched for ages, continues to cast a shadow over the world of sports. The sheer magnitude of this problem raises significant questions about its longevity, even in the face of stringent measures aimed at curbing illegal activities. Despite numerous cases being exposed each year and some operations attempting to cloak themselves in legality while skirting the rules, the cricket betting industry shows no signs of abating. As a fervent cricket enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the inner workings of this complex business—how it operates, the people involved, and its persistent influence on the game.

During my extensive All India cycle tour, fortune favored me as I crossed paths with Mr. Vardha Sinh Rajput from Suigam district in Gujarat. He provided me with a window into the world of cricket betting by sharing insights into the functioning of a betting firm based in Dubai, masterminded by the notorious Tommy Patel Unjha, a wanted criminal in our country. Engaging in conversation with Mr. Rajput shed light on how these individuals have devised methods to conduct their operations from Dubai, capitalizing on the differing regulatory landscape in comparison to India.

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What goes on in the mind of a person who decides to build a temple in India?

Gujarat, People / Asutosh

India is a land where temples echo with centuries of spirituality and devotion. Over the annals of time, kings and rulers have commissioned the construction of an astonishing multitude of temples, each bearing testament to the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage. Even today, this sacred tradition endures, with new temples continuing to grace our landscapes. In the bygone era, these temples stood as veritable hubs of culture and knowledge, nurturing education in its myriad forms.

Through my modest experiences and observations, I have gleaned that the task of building temples is often shouldered by the affluent, a form of fulfilling one’s Dharma and contributing to the community. During my extensive cycling expedition across the expanse of India, I had the privilege of meeting an extraordinary individual Hamir Bhai Gangaji Parmar, a vibrant 62-year-old visionary. Nestled in the remote desert village of Suigam in Gujarat, an arid land devoid of lush vegetation and ample water, Hamir Sir is leading the construction of a temple dedicated to Mogol Ma, a revered goddess in the region.

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Things I got to learn travelling Gujarat on a cycle

Gujarat, State summary / Asutosh

Traveling in is an immersive journey that unveils the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty this Indian state has to offer. From the bustling streets of Ahmedabad to the tranquil white desert of Kutch where the moonlight illuminates the salt flats, every day is a new adventure. Gujarat’s diverse cuisine is a highlight, with mouthwatering dishes like dhokla and fafda to savor. As you venture further, you’ll encounter the architectural marvels of Somnath and a number of Jain temples, each with its own unique story. The diverse ethnicity of Gujarat makes the extended stay in Gujarat a truly memorable and heartwarming experience.

During my extensive all-India cycling expedition, I had the privilege of exploring Gujarat for a remarkable period of one and a half months. Over this time, I encountered a diverse array of people across three distinct regions within the state: Saurashtra, the colossal district of Kutch, and the remainder of Gujarat. In this article, I aim to encapsulate my observations and insights from my travels through this culturally rich state while striving to maintain objectivity. Nevertheless, it’s important to acknowledge that my mode of travel and interactions with the locals inherently introduce a level of subjectivity to my perspective, so please consider this account with a degree of critical reflection.

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How is the life of an individual who has pursued ghost hunting as a profession in YouTube?

Gujarat, People / Asutosh

Ghost hunting videos on YouTube have gained significant popularity in recent years. These captivating videos showcase individuals and paranormal investigators embarking on eerie and suspenseful journeys to uncover supernatural phenomena. Viewers are drawn to these videos as they provide a window into the mysterious world of the paranormal, with ghost hunters capturing potential evidence of spirits or unexplained occurrences. These videos offer a mix of excitement, curiosity, and a hint of fear, making them a fascinating subgenre on YouTube, where audiences can vicariously experience the thrill of the unknown from the safety of their screens. Whether it’s exploring haunted locations, analyzing strange sounds, or sharing spine-tingling encounters, ghost hunting videos continue to captivate and intrigue a global audience of paranormal enthusiasts.

During my extensive cycling tour across India, I had the privilege of crossing paths with Mr. Kamal Sharma, the mastermind behind the YouTube channel known as KP History Official. With an impressive subscriber count of 1.38 lakh and a dedicated team of four professionals committed to creating captivating videos, Kamal offered me invaluable insights into the intricate world of ghost hunting and the meticulous efforts that fuel this fascinating endeavor.

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The dying art of Indian traditional medicines and the community – Nai Samaj

Gujarat, People / Asutosh

In the era of universally accepted Western medicine, traditional remedies that have been administered for centuries have dwindled in significance. Fewer people turn to these traditional treatments due to their lengthy healing processes and skepticism stemming from contemporary research. Despite the declining usage of traditional medicine, there are communities, like the Nai Samaj, who continue to uphold these practices, providing a glimmer of hope for their preservation.

During my all India cycling journey, I had the privilege of meeting Harish Bhai Surani, a member of the Nai Samaj community, originally barbers who have been prescribing local remedies for generations. Harish shared that his community has historically treated royalty and nobility with these traditional medicines. Although their use is declining, some community members still adhere to these practices. Through a brief conversation at Harish’s traditional salon, which he runs alongside his two sons, I gained insights into the preservation of Indian traditional medicine, its decline over time, and the perspective of community members regarding its usage.

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How can one afford humanity without money?

Gujarat, People / Asutosh

Humanity’s reach extends far beyond the confines of our own species, encompassing the entire animal kingdom. This extension is rooted in our shared planet and the intricate web of life that connects us all. It’s a recognition that animals, like us, can experience pain, pleasure, and a range of emotions. In our pursuit of empathy and compassion, we strive to protect and preserve the well-being of animals, acknowledging that their existence holds intrinsic value. Whether it’s in our efforts to conserve endangered species, provide humane treatment for livestock, or rescue and care for abandoned pets, we demonstrate that our humanity is not confined to humans alone. It’s a broader commitment to the interconnectedness of life and a testament to our capacity for kindness, stewardship, and moral responsibility toward the diverse creatures that share this planet with us.

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What it takes to become an Rj more than possessing the ability to speak?

People, Uttar Pradesh / Asutosh

To become a radio jockey (RJ), one generally need to have strong communication skills, a pleasant and engaging voice, creativity, and a good understanding of the content that is going to be presented. Many RJs start by gaining experience at local or community radio stations, working on their presentation skills, and building a portfolio. Formal education in broadcasting, journalism, or a related field can definitely aid the process, but practical experience and networking within the industry are crucial. Beyond all this, one needs to possess the innate instincts to want to speak and want to speak in a way people want to hear them speak.

During my all India cycling expedition, I had the honor of crossing paths with Sampoorn Shukla, an adept freelance anchor with an illustrious 7-year career. Notably, he lent his voice to various platforms, including a commendable 4.5-year stint with All India Radio (AIR), spanning from 2018 to 2023. Over this period, he masterfully guided audiences through more than a thousand events nationwide, even gracing the stage for a momentous occasion hosting the Prime Minister during the Rashtriya Poshan Saptaah.

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Things I got to learn touring Madhya Pradesh on a cycle for 40 days

1 Comment / Madhya Pradesh, People, State summary / Asutosh

Madhya Pradesh, the second largest state in India in terms of land area, presents an interesting contrast with regard to population diversity, ranking fifth. This indicates a sparser population spread across a larger space. The state boasts vast forests and open lands, adding to its unique charm. Due to its substantial size, Madhya Pradesh’s cultural diversity cannot be easily encapsulated.

During my 40-day all India cycle tour through Madhya Pradesh, I journeyed from the far west to the far east, revealing a clear divide into two halves. The western half, from Jabalpur to Bhopal, and the eastern half, from Bhopal to the Gujarat border, exhibit distinctive cultural differences, akin to experiencing two different states.

As an impartial observer during my travels, I noted these observations, acknowledging that my perspective may contain some subjectivity. Please take these insights with a grain of salt.

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