Bang Bang Galore!
A Filmmaker’s BLOGELLA
Written by Steve Rosenberg
Blog 28 (Bike Ride)
We are traveling through a set of beautiful mountains on our way to Kodiakanale. I have filmed dozens of beautiful purple/blue sunset shots throughout our trip; one can never have enough beauty shots. And they can be used as establishment shots, transition shots or almost anywhere as an alternative to the drab lifestyle set in Bangalore.
It’s been a long trip and frankly, I am simply exhausted from lack of sleep and exercise. It is late afternoon and we are traveling through the upper Palani Hills. A few of the kids decide to bike down the mountain and I jump at the opportunity of joining them. Riding down a mountain on a bicycle without properly serviced brakes or a helmet is downright scary. But in India, I take more chances. The views of this arid mountain range are exquisite and the exercise is exhilarating.
Snaking down the mountain, like a racing squad
Anthony, Satish and I each take turns jockeying for the lead biking position. We are pedaling so fast that we have lost all contact with our van. Another day, another magnificent sunset and I have feelings of remorse for leaving my camera behind. So often, the glory of trying to capture a mood on film separates me from actual beauty of the moment.
Tonight we eat at another small village greasy spoon. No matter where we eat, the cooks in this country do amazing things with bread; oven baked, fried, grilled. It’s always hot and delicious and perfect for mopping up vegetarian sauces. I am now successfully eating without utensils and slurping up my food with the best of them. I never imagined how much weight I would gain eating meals that cost less than sixty cents. I remember years ago, watching Sally Struthers on TV and hearing her talk of how far one dollar goes in some countries.
Well now I believe it.
At first, the idea of this eating this food on a regular basis repulsed me but gradually it grew on me. It reminds me of my initial feelings about sex.
At first, I was repulsed, but like anything wonderful, you acquire a taste and then before you know it, you can’t live without it. It’s been a long day and I can’t wait to crash in clean bed.
