Why is Somen Debnath’s 19-year journey a world biking odyssey?
Odyssey, an epic written by Homer is a priceless gift. His magnum opus consists of two epic poems: The Iliad and the Odyssey. Similarly, India’s ancient epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, are treasured gifts to the world. While The Iliad explores the theme of war, and The Odyssey beautifully portrays life after war, revealing the beauty and challenges of family life.
Somen Debnath pedaled his way around the globe, connecting with millions of people along his route.While his journey was fraught with danger – from robberies and Taliban beatings to terrifying leopards chases , he was also showered with respect and honour by African Kings and global leaders including presidents and prime ministers . He basked in the unconditional love and care from families around the world, felt a deep connection with mothers from diverse backgrounds, who wrapped him in warmth, their tender touch speaking louder than the words.
This sense of oneness is beautifully captured in the Vedas (knowledge), an ancient Indian text says “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” meaning the world is one family. As family members we are all interconnected, part of this vast global family sharing the same mother Earth. While differences in language, colour, religion and beliefs may divide us we are one at the core. We may not grasp the depth of this diversity in one lifetime, but we are one, and this oneness is our essence.
“After all these years of travelling, I have understood one thing about the world – that it simply reciprocates. If you are confused, you’ll get nothing but confusion from the world. If you’re pessimistic, you’ll get cynicism. You will see the reflection of yourself in the world. So if you’re hopeful and optimistic, that’s what the world will reflect for you. See, the world doesn’t know good or bad, it simply responds to whatever we have to offer,” – Somen Debnath (The Better India January 9, 2017)
