Around the Next Bend

Around the Next Bend is an intriguing, thrilling, and educational television show from Janson Media, which aired in 2012. It's a meeting point between a travel adventure and a social and geographical exploration, presented in-depth and beautifully to the viewers.

The series revolves around two young and enthusiastic Canadian friends, Ryan Pyle and Andre Dupuis. Their daring spirit, craving for adventure, and shared love for the unknown led them to embark on an extraordinary journey across the waters of the majestic River Ganges. Their means of transportation is unconventional and unforeseen: an inflatable raft. This raft symbolizes their shared ambition to break norms, embrace nature's rawness, and tread in unchartered waters quite literally.

Throughout Around the Next Bend, viewers can expect to observe the magnificent landscapes of India in all of their glory. The show doesn't restrict itself to the primarily touristic places and instead ventures off the beaten path, revealing to viewers the beautiful simplicity and complexity of life in remote Indian villages and the colossal Indian urban cities. Viewers have the unique opportunity to experience the inherent contrast and diverse tapestry of this vast country.

Ryan and Andre are not just along for the ride; they are deeply involved in every aspect of their journey. The two friends operate the raft themselves but begin their journey without any rafting experience. As the series advances, they learn and refine their skills, carrying viewers along on their learning path. Their resolve and unyielding determination, highlighted as they paddle against the tide, forms a significant part of the narrative, making the series more than an ordinary travelogue.

The unpredictability of the River Ganges is a central theme in the series. Just as the river twists and turns, the duo's journey is full of unexpected challenges, presenting a real-life drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The duo encounters dangerous rapids, unpredictable weather conditions, and the occasional wild animal, all adding to the overall adventure. The river, its surrounding landscapes, and its inhabitants, both human and animal, become significant characters in the narrative, further increasing engagement.

Perfectly paired with their adventure, the series beautifully explores the cultural aspect of the regions the duo travels through. From Delhi to Varanasi, every place visited is unique, carrying its own set of customs, traditions, myths, and distinctive regional cuisine. Ryan and Andre interact with the locals, participate in festivals, try their hand at cooking India's diverse foods, and even get involved in local sports and recreational activities. These elements add a significantly rich and vibrant cultural layer to the adventure, educating the viewers while keeping them thoroughly entertained.

Throughout their journey, they encounter various interesting personalities, which contribute to the cultural immersion. They meet holy men, renowned chefs, local celebrities, and good-hearted villagers, all contributing to the narrative in their own unique ways. Their interactions with these individuals provide enlightening insights into Indian society, offering an anthropological view of life along the Ganges. Moreover, their conversations with these personalities reveal intriguing stories about local communities and their relationship with the unique Indian landscape.

Another exceptional feature of Around the Next Bend is its cinematography. Shot beautifully along the Ganges, one of the world's most iconic rivers, the series offers breathtaking visuals. From stunning sunrise scenes to the portrayal of the hustle and bustle of Indian streets, the program captures the essence of India and embeds it into every frame. The powerful images, combined with compelling storytelling, create a captivating visual treat for viewers.

With thrilling adventure, fascinating cultural insights, and stunning visuals, Around the Next Bend is certainly more than a travel series. It’s an exploration of life along the Ganges from the perspective of two steadfast friends, their resilience, and innumerable priceless encounters. The series encourages and inspires viewers to embrace life's unpredictability and the undiscovered terrains in the world and within ourselves.