Book by India's ocean adventurer - Gulshan Rai
by Nancy Knudsen on 20 Feb 2009
Sailing the Oceans, story of a circumnavigation by Gulshan Rai SW
Last week the Indian Navy announced that one of the members of the Navy will depart on India's first solo circumnavigation of the world, and Sail-World published the story. Thanks to reader Tom Scarff in Thailand, we were reminded that amateur yachtsman Gulshan Rai, had in fact adventured round the globe in 1987-88, and 'Sailing the Oceans' is the story of his journey.
Gulshan Rai was much recognised in India for his sailing feats, the Ocean Cruising Club of England awarded him the prestigious Barton Cup, and the Seven Seas Cruising Club also honoured him, presenting him with their Circumnavigators' Award.
The book itself contains some graphic descriptions of the sea in all its moods, and describes everything from the sensations of real gnawing fear of the storm to the suspense when fog-bound in a busy shipping lane. The author has a good sprinkle of anecdotes and backgrounders, which enhance the readability of the book, and at every turn, there are deep thoughts that make Gulshan's book more than a mere account of a difficult voyage.
To obtain autographed copies of Sailing the Oceans, or any of his other books, you can go directly to his
website and choose 'Contact Me'
About Gulshan Rai:
Born in 1942 in the Punjab region of India, Gulshan Rai studied at the Indian School of International Studies in New Delhi before becoming a college teacher. As a Commissioner for Customs, he started competitive sailing in dinghies and then keeled boats, excelling and winning many local races.
In 1978 at the age of 36, he sailed from Bombay to Colombo in an open sailboat. The next year he was wrecked, but not daunted, and in 1981 he set out again and sailed from England to India in a 31 ft sloop.
In 1987-88 he sailed around the world in a 32 ft cutter, which is the subject of his book. For this journey he was awarded the distinguished Indian Civil title of PADMA SHRI, the fourth highest award in India, usually awarded to recognise a distinguished contribution to Indian cultural or commercial life.
He was the Commodore(2002-04) and then President (2005-2006) of the Royal Bombay Yacht Club. Gulshan writes on yachting for the Times of India, Asia Pacific Boating, India Boating, the Flying Fish etc. and is currently researching the history of yachting in India with specific reference to the Royal Bombay Yacht Club
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