Noted painter Pradyumna Kumar Mahanandia from Athmallik in Angul district sold his belongings and bought a cycle to go to Sweden and meet the love of his life. He started the unbelievable and arduous journey in 1977 and his now settled in Sweden with his family. On the sidelines of the premiere of the documentary, ‘The Cycle of Love’, based on his extraordinary cycle journey, Mahanandia spoke to TOI’s Hemanta Pradhan about his love, journey to Sweden, memories and Odia roots1-What was the most difficult part of your cycling journey from India to Sweden?It took time to overcome my doubts and fears — the fear that I might not survive the journey. But in the end, I made up my mind: I would reach my love no matter what.2-Has the film brought back memories that had faded over time?Yes, it brought back memories, especially nature’s beauty in the countries I covered like Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey, etc. The landscapes reminded me of Mother Earth.3-Did you ever consider giving up the cycle journey midway?Though I had faced many difficulties during the long journey, I never thought of giving up. I was determined to meet my love.4-What kept you going?My love, Lotta (Charlotte Von Schedvin from Sweden)— I had to see her.5-Was there a particular encounter with strangers on the road that remains vivid in your memory?Yes, I still remember those days. I fell sick in the Afghan desert near Herat. An art teacher took me to the hospital and then to his house. His mother fed and cared for me. He died a few years back, but I maintain contact with the artist’s wife.6-How did that long journey transform you as a person?After crossing all those countries, I feel deeply close to Mother Earth. Through nature, I learned so much about different cultures. I passed through many languages, but I believe in only one — the language of the heart. I passed through many religions, but I believe in only one — the religion of love.7-Do you think a love story like yours is possible in today’s fast-paced world?Yes, everything is possible. I think a love story like mine is possible in today’s fast-paced world. That is what I believe, with all my heart.8-How have your Odia roots shaped your personality and artistic vision?Throughout my life, the ancient Odia culture has been my deepest inspiration. It flows through everything I am and everything I create. I recollect the memories of my childhood spent in Odisha9-Many people know you for your love story, but you are first and foremost an artist. How would you like your artistic legacy to be remembered?With the power of love — our root is love. Everyone should remember where they came from: We all come from love.