RIDER ON THE storm

36 Days, 9,500 miles and 19 states. SADHGURU JAGGI VASUDEV tells KARAN KAUSHIK about exploring spiritual America

- KARAN KAUSHIK

WHAT DO I CALL HIM?

A spiritual leader? A yogi? A New York Times bestselling author? Or should I call him a mystic who loves to ride bikes? The world may know him as one of India’s most revered spiritual leaders but not many are aware that Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev is an avid traveller with an undying love for motorbikes. Sadhguru was on a motorcycle journey across North America recently, where he met Native Americans and explored their spirituality and mysticism.

During the 36-day-long adventure-packed journey, Sadhguru and his convoy of 16 fellow travellers rode through 19 states and covered a staggering 9,477 miles. The journey was an attempt to delve deeper into the lives of the indigenous population of North America, who have captured the imagination of people around the world. Known for their intimate connection with the natural elements, Native Americans have an intuitive understanding and a heightened sense of perception that governs every aspect of this unique culture.

From the scenic views of the Zion National Park in Utah and the Mississippi River in Missouri, to iconic monuments like the Mato Tipila in Wyoming and Crazy Horse in South Dakota, Sadhguru explored the picturesque landscapes and witnessed the profundity of the Native cultures. He also traversed through the majestic Meramec Caverns (Missouri), Old Faithful Geyser (Wyoming), Eternal Flame (Cherokee Nation) and other notable landmarks.

The spiritual leader also spent Indigenous Peoples’ Day in conversation with Black Eyed Peas’ Taboo, a rapper of Mexican-Native American origin. Sadhguru also met Hollywood star Will Smith and his family at his home and interacted with the legendary boxer Mike Tyson a little ahead of his much-anticipated return to boxing.