4th August, Kolkata – Traveling is often seen as a way to escape the mundane, but for Dr. Debanjali Ray, an anesthesiologist and pain specialist, and her husband Kaushik Ray, a businessman of Kolkata, it’s a way to bring their passions to life. The couple’s decision to embark on a journey from the Ganges to the Thames was driven by a shared dream of exploring the world, understanding different cultures, and pushing the boundaries of their comfort zones. They wanted to see the world beyond the confines of their professional lives, to experience the richness of life through travel.
The grand inauguration of this year’s Kolkata to London expedition was led by Madan Mitra, the current Chairman of WBTC Ltd., alongside other enthusiastic participants. Starting on August 23, 2024, this remarkable 64-day journey will cover an astounding 18,000 kilometers across 23 countries. The adventure, costing Rs 13 lakh per person, promises an unforgettable experience. The route will wind through diverse and captivating landscapes, including Nepal, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Armenia, Georgia, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, and France, finally culminating in the vibrant city of London on October 25. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition and create memories that will last forever.
Dr. Debanjali Ray says, “Previously, we were under the dominion of the British, but the tables have turned, and now we shall reign over them (with a smile). The inception of this ambitious endeavor originates from Kaushik’s visionary mind, and I have supported him unconditionally. The groundwork and logistical nuances are my forte, while Kaushik handles the technical intricacies. My responsibilities encompass everything from ensuring the phone is adequately charged, checklists are packed, or scrutinizing battery levels and various other minutiae. We are poised to traverse approximately 18,000 kilometers, gathering water from every river we encounter en route to the Thames. This collected water will be presented during the Thames Parade, a sacred festival where waters from diverse rivers will converge and blend.”
Also Read: Triumph in Paris Indian shooters make Olympic history
When queried about the potential risks of such expeditions, Mr. Ray responds,
“In alignment with our Chief Minister’s advocacy for ‘Safe Drive, Safe Life,’ we give the same cautionary advice to our participants. We have done such trips before and there are no such risks. While some may harbor concerns regarding health-related crises, we have established connections across the countries we will traverse. These acquaintances have consistently proven to be supportive, alleviating any worries about encountering serious issues.”
“There will be a total of 10 participants and 4 vehicles undertaking this communal journey. We have endeavored to curtail the expenses to the barest minimum, resulting in a cost of Rs. 14 Lakhs per individual,” states Kaushik Ray.
The couple unanimously expresses, “The most enchanting aspect of the expedition is the diverse individuals we encounter and the manner in which they proffer their assistance and camaraderie throughout our voyage, which profoundly enhances our admiration and reverence for humanity in its entirety. Each culture has a specific attire, flavor, smell of the land, language and so on which lures on the mind much after we return from such trips.”
Dr. Debanjali Ray has also authored a book titled, ‘The Silk Route’. This work delves into the histories and cultures of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan—nations that were once integral parts of the Soviet Union but now constitute the heart of Central Asia. The narrative spans the era when these regions were governed by Persian rulers, tracing their journey through time to their contemporary developments. The simplicity and authenticity of these countries are deeply compelling, and I find them truly admirable.
