A Passage To India

DVD, Himalaya (A Passage To India)

Perhaps the most interesting episode of the series, thanks to the surreal interview with the Dalai Lama where he discusses such things as his dietary relief and knowing Michael Palin's face from his other journeys - a big fan of the BBC! The episode has other fascinating moments too, with a visit to the Sikh Golden Temple where they make thousands of meals a day, to the dramatic border ceremony between the Indian and Pakistan soldiers, more stamping than marching. And don't forget the mix up over his name when appearing on the stage of the Gaiety Theatre. First it's Michael Pallin, then it's Michael Plain! And we get the first taste of what is to come with views of K2 and the surrounding peaks.

The photography is impressive as usual (Nigel gets his little moment of glory when he's offered some food from the Michael), I especially liked the rainy shots of the lake they stayed round on house boats, with a plant bouncing a single drop around it's leaf, standing out.

This feels a lot more like the older series, with completely new places, people and the fascination of customs and events. Though just when I was beginning to think the Sikh's had pretty ordinary ways they then reveal the putting to bed of their holy book... A good continuation of the journey and they haven't even got to the mountains yet.

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