Expert Speaks - Rishad Cooper

Rishad Cooper is one of the very few motoring journalists who have witnessed the Indian motoring journalism industry evolve over the past three decades. Representing the rare breed of specialist two-wheeler journalists, Rishad is credited with being the only Indian jury member for the International Bike-Of-The Year awards for many years. An immensely respected figure in the Indian motoring journalism community, and an avid horologist, here’s Rishad opening up about his journey thus far…

You have been a part of the automotive industry for a long time now. According to you, how has the Indian automotive journalism scenario evolved over the years?

When I started, automotive journalists covered both cars and bikes, period! Due to my patchy car knowledge, I could only cover bikes, which was unheard of and frowned upon at that time. Two decades ago, the auto industry was small, with the motoring journalism community being even smaller. At every launch, press conference or test ride, we would be the same 4-5 faces, with the luxury of an entire month to pen reports. If anyone had said come 2021, there would be dozens of events and scores of journalists, bloggers, freelancers and influencers uploading reports minutes after experiencing new products, we would have laughed. Yet, here we are witnessing what was unimaginable back in the day. It is an absolute treat to see automotive journalism explode into such a dynamic, mega and unstoppable movement!

Which is the best destination you have been to in your professional career, on a two-wheeler?

It is hard to pick one destination as I have been fortunate to ride all over the world on 'work', but two standout riding locations were:
1. Lanzarote, a Canary Island-born from volcanic eruptions, where roads offer terrific grip amidst surreal vistas
2. The magical, high altitude Himalayan roads of Himachal and Ladakh.

As an automotive journalist, who has been your biggest inspiration and why?

Again, it is hard to name just one, but I would name Hormazd Sorabjee for his vast experience and dedication. There is Aspi Bhathena too, who has inspired many with his excellent riding skill and knowledge. Then there is Sirish Chandran, Kartikeya Singhee, Siddharth Patankar, Kranti Sambhav, Vikrant Singh, and so many more, all of them doing great work.

Any tips you would like to give to budding automotive journalists of our country?

Stay true to the products you review, stay safe and share all your knowledge openly.