Kailash:One Mountain, Many Journeys
We will be making the first significant documentary about what is perhaps the world's greatest spiritual epicentre.
This project takes 4 Australians to the Crown Chakra of the earth.... Mount Kailash. The journey will take approximately 18 days, stretching across Tibet, allowing us to explore culture, food, religion, medicine, spirituality and the picturesque terrain of the Himalayas. Mount Kailash is of great importance to 4 of the world's religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bonism.
We will be on a quest to explore the region surrounding the holy mountain over 8 days via 4WD, and also by a 4-5 day trek circumambulating the mountain on an ancient pilgrimage route (52 km trek). Before this, we will be acclimatising in Lhasa, Tibet, explore the cultural aspects of the city. We will also be visiting the Mount Everest Base Camp (North Base Camp in Tibet at an elevation of 5,150 metres) on our return journey from Mount Kailash.
Even though Mount Kailash is of importance to many religions and a lot of people seeking spiritual fulfilment, and one of the world's most ancient pilgrimage routes, very little is said or known about it. There's actually a surprising scarcity of documentaries about this region and its' history. One reason is that Mt Kailash is so remote, and mainly accessible for 3 months of the year. The landscape is harsh, dry and extreme. The temperatures can range from -25 to 35 degrees Celsius. Kailash's elevation is 6638m. The highest elevation we will be crossing is the Drolma La Pass at just over 5600m Elevation.

Our challenge is to make a feature length documentary, about this fascinating part of the world, and share our experience with thousands who want to visit, but are restricted for reasons like money, accessibility, age or health, or simply to share with those who are unaware of this magical place. We will aim to inspire our viewers to seek spiritual experiences while traveling across the globe.
We will also be working towards creating awareness about spirituality, the power spots on earth, and how this mountain became so important to 4 of the world's religions.
All our contributors will be given notifications of the production's progress, a place in the credits and depending on your level of contribution, digital or disc copy of the final film.
The Team
SUMIT PURDANI (Pilgrimage Team - Team Leader)

I am a banker by profession, religious and spiritual by nature. 32 years old, I always seek to explore the secrets mother nature has to offer. My childhood was spread all over Northern India, and in the footsteps of the Himalayas. My schooling was in New Delhi and I finished my Post Graduate Degree in Finance and Accountancy at the Australian Catholic University, in Sydney.
The last 6 years of my life have been in Sydney, and I have loved every minute of it. I have met some of the most amazing people here, and made some of the best friends.
I am passionate about learning and invest time in subjects that effect the masses and humanity. I take part in debates and discussions about politics.
I am proud of my achievements from 1998 - 2008, in projects aimed at creating awareness for childrens' education for those under the poverty line. This work has been of utmost satisfaction to me, and is close to my heart as it has enabled many to achieve a better and more fulfilling life for their families, which they otherwise would have not have had the opportunity to.
This whole expedition started from a conversation Peter and I had in 2008. The idea started to flourish as we got closer and closer to 2014, the year of the Horse, and the reality of the expedition and project is now upon us!
The reason I am doing this journey is not only to satisfy my inner being, but also to create awareness about this region, and bring it to the people who can't visit, through the lens of the camera. Though we have been planning this for a long time, this project is only the beginning.
I am looking forward to your SUPPORT, SUGGESTIONS and LOVE.
PETER SCARSELLETTI (Pilgrimage Team - Lead Photographer/Cinematographer)

32 years of age, born and raised in the northern suburbs of Sydney, Australia with Italian/Australian heritage, I graduated from the University of Western Sydney in 2004 with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and have practiced full time and part time in Australia as a Health Professional since then. In recent years, I have become a leader in my field, assisting to shape my profession by organising world class educational seminars in Australia and New Zealand through my business: Qiology- http://www.qiology.com.au/latest-seminar.php
I have studied many systems of acupuncture, meridian therapy, energy healing, and other therapies, and also have a strong focus on the integration of acupuncture with the Chakra system.
I have extensive knowledge and expertise in Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription and the usage of dietary modification and supplementation, as well as contemporary physical and energetic detoxification protocols.
I travel to certain cities of the world to seek out study opportunities in the healing arts in order to provide the most complete and effective strategies for my clients, and fulfil my passion for continual personal and professional development, whilst travelling the world.
I draw on my many years of experience in martial arts, internal energy cultivation techniques, breath work, philosophy and meditation, as well as my studies in BioGeometry, Vibrational Radiesthesia and Esoteric Sciences to assist in understanding myself, the amazing planet I live on and its inhabitants, and the nature of disharmony in the bodies and minds of my clients.
In July 2014, I was able to spend 1 month volunteering my healthcare expertise in a remote clinic in Nepal where an international organisation has set up a health clinic for those with little access to quality health care. This experience allowed me to observe how medicine is practiced in this part of the world, and it is my sincere hope that during this trip to Tibet, some opportunities will arise for me to observe some of the endemic medicinal practices of Tibet.
I have a decade of experience in digital photography and more recently with the advent of improved digital film technology, have branched into a new area of keen interest, and am looking forward to this project.
This is not only going to be a great spiritual experience for me, but will take things to a new level in my life, by putting my will to the test in a remote area of the world. Not only do I intend to grow as a person while exploring and enjoying a fascinating part of the world, but I intend to share my experience with others through the medium of film.
It is with much GRATITUDE that I ACCEPT your SUPPORT.
RACHAEL HALEY (Pilgrimage Team - Itinerary Manager)
Rachael, age 30.
Peter contacted me after hearing I was heading to Nepal later this year to see if I was interested in joining the team at Mt Kailash. Immediately I thought Wow! I definitely don’t want to pass this opportunity up! I had planned to make this year a year of adventure, reflection and most importantly a year for me. So I applied to join the Acupuncture Relief Project in November to do six weeks of volunteer work as an Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist. I thought, I’ll do this and then I’ll continue my adventures in that part of the world. Instead I’ll be joining the Kailash team beforehand to start my journey. It seems fitting that I will doing this pilgrimage to nourish my thirst for adventure, new experiences and maybe to further ‘find myself’; then I will be able to give back to the global community when I volunteer my time in Nepal. This will be a path out of my comfort zone, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally.
I grew up in Melbourne and have been living in Sydney for the past 9 years. I completed an Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy (RMIT) in 2004 and then completed my Bachelor of Applied Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (UWS) in 2009. I have been practicing as an Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist full time ever since.
I have always been interested in alternative medicines, health and well being. I love being in nature, yoga, painting, cooking, traveling and connecting with people of all walks of life.
NAMASTE :)
Dr. JASON MALLIA (Pilgrimage Team - Health Advisor)

Firstly I would like to sincerely thank my fellow Pilgrimage Team members Peter, Sumit and Rachael for accepting me on this wonderful journey to visit a truly special and spiritual place, and would also like to thank our Production team, Kassandra and Adrian in advance for all the work that they will put into the production of this documentary. A special thank you to my good friend Peter Scarselletti, for inviting me to be part of this project. I feel humbled and will be forever grateful for this experience.
I was born and raised in Balmain, Sydney, Australia, of Maltese heritage. Growing up, I was interested in nothing but a sporting career in my beloved Rugby League, however, a serious injury changed the course of my life and blessed me with spiritual development and the gift of finding myself as a healer .
My story is that of the "wounded healer." I, originally in search of healing tools for my own recovery, soon found myself in the healing professions, and have spent the last 15 years in practice as an Integrative Medicine Practitioner in constant search for understanding and wisdom to heal and inspire others.
My Path to where I am today as a person and practitioner of Integrative Healthcare has been an evolutionary process, simultaneous with my own Spiritual development. I began my Spiritual Journey in Health as a Nutritionist and now am a fully qualified Doctor of Integrative Medicine having studied many disciplines including Naturopathic Medicine , Chiropractic , Acupuncture and the mainstream medical model .
I hold a Bachelor of Health Science , Doctor of Integrative Medicine, a PhD in Nutrition along with Professional qualifications in Naturopathic Medicine ,Homeopathic medicine , Acupuncture and various Manual Therapies. My current focus is in the area of Japanese Acupuncture.
Over the last 18 years I attended various Universities Worldwide including , Charles Sturt University in NSW , University of Natural Medicine in the US , The University of Queensland (School of Medicine), Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Macquarie University.
For this Journey I am taking a break from my position as Director of Integrated Health Australia www.integratedhealth.com.au in order to fulfill a need to nourish my mind, body and spirit in order to further inspire others to their own greatness.
KASSANDRA SCARDINO (Production Team - Production Assistant)

Born and bred Sydney girl, with Italian and Mexican heritage. Raised in the Inner West- Concord. Age 30. I studied Fashion Design at East Sydney Tech and had my own fashion label for almost 4 years -The Other Side- with unique reversible denim jeans as its core product line. The label went as far as Australian Fashion Week, picking up investors OS and talking to General Pants Co. for Australian distribution, until everything crashed to a halt in the financial crisis, including my health. I worked a couple of years in the corporate sector to regain stability but was unsatisfied, so I travelled, to then come back to Australia and go deeper into my studies as a Pranic Healer.
Since a young age I was always interested in crystals, astrology and cards, yet at a stage when I was really questioning what to do with myself, and asked the universe for some guidance, Pranic healing crossed my path. I've been studying it for the last 4 years and working full time as a healer since 2013. Pranic healing is a non-touch energy healing modality, using ancient techniques to rebalance the chakras, and work on physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual ailments.
My other passion is a community garden space I help run with my friends: "The Bambou." It is located in the heart of Surry hills. We plan to expand, and turn it into a wellness centre and oasis, in the heart of the city for people to revive, regenerate and rebalance themselves.
I wish I could have been there every step of the way with you all, and I wish with all my heart the most highest outcome for the team on their great adventure, and am looking forward to the creation of the documentary using their amazing footage with them on their return!!!
I WELCOME your SUPPORT with OPEN ARMS!
ADRIAN BARAC (Production Team - Editor)

Adrian has been working in film production and post production for 20 years.
While films and film making have always been a never-ending passion - it’s the craft of Editing that’s emerged as his true calling.
He now works as Senior Editor at Montage Productions in Sydney’s CBD, and is on the committee of the Australian Screen Editors guild.
It is with great enthusiasm and gratitude that we accept Adrian as the Editor for our project. With his expertise, we are confident that our project will achieve great heights!
Adrian Barac's past achievements:
DREAM RACER
- Trailer:
- Feature documentary for theatrical and TV release, with over 300 hours of footage across two continents & several shooting formats.
- Adrian also edited an hour-long TV version, several trailers and sizzle reels.
- Winner of Best International Documentary at the All Sports Festival in LA, Human Values & Sport Award at Barcelona, among several others
- Nominated for Best Editing in a Documentary Program (ASE Awards 2013)
ROLES:
- Editor (included taking on all Assistant Editor duties)
- Online Editor
- Colour Grader
- Additional camerawork
WARD 13
-Trailer:
- Shortlisted for Best Short Animated Film at the 2003 Academy Awards.
- Winner of 17 International Awards, including Best Editing at Flickerfest.
- Acclaimed by various Hollywood heavyweights, including Sam Raimi and David Fincher.
- Still doing the world film festival circuit, with television screenings on ABC & overseas networks.
ROLES:
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Title Design
- Compositing and Effects
- Additional Colour Grading
- Associated work included editing the trailer, as well as two Behind-the-Scenes Vignettes.
BEN HUR - THE ARENA SPECTACULAR
(Half-hour special for Channel 9, and 10-minute featurette shown at the stadium with the show)
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Title Design
HELP
(6 x half-hour series for SBS & Kudos Films, covering the lives of Sydney ambulance workers)
- Contributing Editor
- Online Editor
- Title Design
LEUNIG
- 50 episodes and a 1 hour documentary for screening on SBS, international TV and DVD release.
- Produced by Bryan Brown with SBS.
ROLES:
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Colour Grader
- Compositing and Effects
THE INGHAM INSTITUTE - A JOURNEY
(Documentary covering the founding and construction and Australia's cutting-edge medical research institute)
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Colour Grading
STEVE HUGHES - CONSPIRACY REALIST
- Multi-camera coverage of one Australia's most lauded stand-up comedians.
- 1-Hour special sold to TV and various web outlets.
- Camera Operator
- Shoot Supervisor
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Co-Producer
THE ANCIENT RITE OF COREY McGILLIS
(Half-hour horror-drama. Multiple award-winner, including Best Film at A Night Of Horror 2007)
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Color Grader
- Compositing and Effects
- Associate Producer
CROSSED WIRES
(Drama film for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority)
- Editor
- Online Editor
- Color Grader
- Compositing and Effects
- 2nd Camera
Adrian has also edited and finished many hundreds of TV / cinema commercials and corporate videos for countless advertising agencies and production companies, large and small.
Your Rewards!!!
We also have an understanding that when people pledge toward a project, they love to receive something useful, interesting, or just plain cool in return.
In the creation of our rewards we bring to you something that speaks of who we are, and what we are doing, and what we feel may benefit you in some way based on our cumulative life experiences and professional expertise.
With these points in mind, we have done our best to create exciting, useful, and truly unique rewards:
- Rewards that take into consideration that some people may like to share in our experience from afar, by receiving photos, or souvenirs like prayer flags, Rudraksh necklaces, vials of holy water from Lake Manasarovar, or even an experience such as the placing of prayer flags in peoples' names along the pilgrimage route.
- Rewards that have some correlation with the mystical and spiritual aspects of life, for those true seekers out there, such as the assortment of rewards based on Janam Kundali- Vedic astrological charts- People who opt for this reward will receive an email from us to get all possible details required for the Pundit to create the chart.
- Rewards that use the professional experience of some members of our team, who are Health Professionals, to bring physical, emotional and spiritual health and balance to your lives, which we consider as an extrememly important part in leading a fulfilling life.
- Rewards that are geared toward our Corporate contibutors, so that those generous corporate contributors can benefit their businesses/companies by featuring in our documentary in some capacity, such as through the inclusion of their logos in the opening and closing credits, or even through a small feature in the documentary itself. Each option leads to many advertising possibilities that may be of benefit.
NOTE:
All contributions to this project, small or large will have their names featured in the closing credits.
Corporate contributions will be featured in a Special Thanks segment in the closing credits, and opening credits with representation of their business/company Logo.
We not only look forward to receiving your contributions, but we look forward to rewarding you for your contributions!!!
How The Funds Will Be Used
We also will be supplying all the camera/recording equipment for the trip.
We are looking forward to collecting AUD $7000 %20 from our generous contributors and sponsors.
These funds, which we will accept with much gratitude will be put towards the expenses for editing, polishing and mastering the footage collected during the expedition/trip, and we will also be offsetting any additional camera/recording equipment purchase/hire expenses.
Any additional funding over the amount of AUD $7000 will be put toward costs related to distribution of the documentarty after completion.
The Challenges
We will be at the mercy of weather throughout our trip, as although it is being undertaken at the only major time that the Pilgrimage is possible, it is the Monsoon season, and there may be inclemency on our journey inhibiting our filming.
Altitude sickness is a possible concern, with 5,600 metres above sea level being the peak elevation of where we will be crossing the Drolma La Pass. Acclimatisation protocols will be followed, and correct forms of dietary supplementation as prescribed by our Health Advisor will be taken, therefore we have fewer concerns in this regard.
Physical challenges of trekking will also be a factor, however, our group have all been preparing with physical training over the past months, including special fitness protocols related to challenging the body under reduced oxygenation with Russian Breathwork exercises to maximise the body's oxygen carrying efficiency.
Travel- based health concerns are a possible barrier to our journey. All appropriate medical, health and hygiene measures will be undertaken along our journey, and three members of our Pilgrimage Team are health professionals and first-aiders.
In the case that we do not raise the funds adequately during this campaign, the most important thing is that due to the self-funded journey by each of the four members of the Pilgrimage Team, the footage will still be recorded and archived, and we will fundraise upon our return to Australia to make sure that our documentary is completed and released.
Update August 2014:
We have faced some unexpected challenges in the process of bringing the project to fruition, that we have managed to work through effectively:
-At the beginning of our project we were wanting to include an additional team member to join us on the Pilgrimage Team, whom has considerable Photographic and Cinematographic experience. Unfortunately he could not join our team, due to financial reasons, but he wishes us the best in our endeavours.
- We changed the original itinerary to include only Tibet sightseeing and travel, so we could explore more of Tibet, and instead of viewing Everest via scenic flight, we have decided to visit North Base Camp on our return from Mount Kailash. Therefore it may be observed that our journey will be slightly different to that announced in our introductory interview.
-1 month Prior to the originally planned Pilgrimage date of June, 2014, we had to postpone to the last month that is possible to safely do the Pilgrimage, before the region becomes too treacherous due to weather conditions- September, 2014. We had to postpone because we were not able to get an entry permit to Tibet at this time, due to the large number of pilgrims entering Tibet this year, at this time, to do pilgrimages to Mt. Kailash in the Year of the Horse. Luckily, this this was a blessing in disguise that this happened, as it was just prior to June that one of our team was hospitalised with a serious respiratory infection. If the Pilgrimage was to go ahead as originally planned in June, this team member would not have been able to safely undertake the journey, as the adequate lung function would not have returned in due time.
-Due to the changes in schedule, one of our previous Pilgrimage Team members, Kassandra, had to pull out of the expedition, as she was scheduled to join us in Lhasa in June after her trip to India in May 2014. As Kassandra has other travel committments scheduled for September, she will now be assisting as a member of the Production Team only. We are grateful for her continued support with the project.
-In late July/early August another factor affecting the success of our journey became evident. Originally we had another Pilgrimage Team member who was young and unexperienced, who proved to be a possible liability and safety concern to the Pilgrimage Team for this expedition. He demonstrated lack of character and suitability for the project in our preparatory process due to a concerning lack of motivation and dependability. For safety reasons and the common good of the project, we unfortunately had to amicably remove this member from the team, and wish him the best in his future endeavours.
Mt Kailash Photograph
Mt Kailash Photograph For each $10 Pledge, a professional quality photograph of Mt Kailash, taken during the pilgrimage, printed on 5 inch x 7 inch Photo Quality paper will be sent to your address (within Australia), along with the RAW or JPG (sent via email). International orders- RAW or JPG sent via email only.
Holy Water
Holy Water from Lake Manasarovar Receive a small, ornamental vial of water from the holy lake with each $20 Pledge. One of our planet's most ancient lakes, the water from Lake Manasarovar, which is the highest freshwater lake in the world (at 4588m) is treausred for its mystical properties. Buddhist followers believe that water here can wash away “five malignancies of the human soul.” We will be bringing back a small amount of water from the lake & will be distributing it in vials as rewards.
Prayer Flag Placement
Prayer Flag Placement Prayer Flags in Tibet are called Lung Ta (Wind Horse), which is symbolic of the image and the action of these flags. The idea is that by hanging these flags in high places such as from the top of stupas and across mountain paths, the Wind Horse will carry the blessings depicted on the flags to all beings. For each $25 Pledge we will place a prayer flag bearing your name at a specific location along the Pilgrimage route with an accompanying photograph of its placement.
Prayer Flags
Prayer Flags Prayer Flags in Tibet are called Lung Ta (Wind Horse), which is symbolic of the image and the action of these flags. The idea is that by hanging these flags in high places such as from the top of stupas and across mountain paths, or in the home, the Wind Horse will carry the blessings depicted on the flags to all beings. For each $35 Pledge we will ship to you a set of Tibetan prayer flags.
Holy Water & Prayer Flag
Holy Water from Lake Manasarovar & Prayer Flag Placement Combination Package For each $40 Pledge: 1 Vial of Holy Water from Lake Manasarovar will be shipped to you via mail 1 Prayer Flag bearing your name will be placed along the Pilgrimage route with an accompanying photo of its placement.
Distance Pranic Healing
A distance Pranic Healing session. Pranic Healing is a highly evolved and tested system of energy medicine developed by GrandMaster CKS, that utilizes prana to balance, harmonize and transform the body's energy processes. Kassandra Scardino is a qualified Pranic Healer. Pranic Healing has a special method of Distance Healing, that can be performed from a distance. With each $50 Pledge you are entitled to book in 1 Distance Healing session via email to be performed at a specific date and time.
A Rudraksh necklace.
A Rudraksh necklace. Rudraksha's meaning—the eye of Rudra [Shiva], which is considered to be the most potent manifestation of the Cosmic Force. Hence Rudraksha is an object of veneration and also a source to reach the higher self. The Rudraksha is often believed to symbolize the link between the earth and the heaven. These beads are the seeds of the Rudraksha fruit obtained from Rudraksha trees. Each $75 Pledge allows one to receive via post, one of these special necklaces
Pranic Healing session
Pranic Healing session (in person). Pranic Healing is a highly evolved and tested system of energy medicine developed by GrandMaster CKS, that utilizes prana to balance, harmonize and transform the body's energy processes. Kassandra Scardino is a qualified Pranic Healer. The treatment usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. Appointments available at Sydney, Australia location in the month of August/September, 2014. Email to book appointment after Pledging $99
Chakra Balancing
Chakra Balancing Acupuncture Session: These sessions involve a quick diagnostic procedure to determine which Chakras need rebalancing. A special acupuncture treatment is then performed by Registered Acupuncturist, Peter Scarselletti, based on the treatment protocols of the visionary, Dr. Mikio Sankey. The treatment usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. Appointments available at Sydney, Australia location in the month of August, 2014. Email to book appointment after Pledging $100
Combination Package
Rudraksh Necklace, Holy Water from Lake Manasarovar & Prayer Flag Placement Combination Package 1 Rudraksh Necklace will be shipped to you via mail 1 Vial of Holy Water from Lake Manasarovar will be shipped to you via mail 1 Prayer Flag bearing your name will be placed along the Pilgrimage route with an accompanying photo of its placement.
Janam Kundali
Janam Kundali The Astrological Birth chart of a person. It speaks about a person's fortune. It has information and recommendations on your life, nature, attitude, success, partner, and an in depth analysis about your temperament, characteristics, personality, strengths and weaknesses etc. Graphical representation of Planets at time of your Birth is a specific method developed by ancient yogis. This will be charted by an experienced Indian Pundit in Delhi. Personal Details required via email
Pranic Healing
2 Pranic Healing sessions (in person). Pranic Healing is a highly evolved and tested system of energy medicine developed by GrandMaster CKS, that utilizes prana to balance, harmonize and transform the body's energy processes. Kassandra Scardino is a qualified Pranic Healer. The treatment usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. Appointments available at Sydney, Australia location in the month of August/September, 2014. Email to book 2 appointments after Pledging $147
Chakra Balancing
2 Chakra Balancing Acupuncture Sessions. These sessions involve a quick diagnostic procedure to determine which Chakras need rebalancing. A special Chakra Balancing acupuncture treatment is then performed by Registered Acupuncturist, Peter Scarselletti. The treatment usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. Appointments available at Sydney, Australia location in the month of August, 2014. Email to book 2 appointments after Pledging $150
Janam Kundali
Janam Kundali Family Pack of 3 Janam Kundali is the Astrological Birth chart of a person. It speaks about a person's fortune. It has information and recommendations on your life, nature, attitude, success, partner, and an in depth analysis about your temperament, characteristics, personality, strengths and weaknesses etc. Graphical representation of Planets at time of your Birth is a specific method developed by ancient yogis. This will be charted by an experienced Indian Pundit in Delhi.
Janam Kundali
Traditional Indian Match Making based on Janam Kundali (please see reward description). This reward gets you 2 Janam Kundali's and a compatibility report based on stars, planets, time of birth, date of birth & place of birth of each partner. This is suitable for those wishing to discover the astrological compatibility and perspectives on future possibilities with the partner you are thinking of deepening your relationship with. We accept no liability if matches are deemed to not be ideal.
$500 Corporate Sponsor
$500 Corporate Sponsorship Pledge A $500 Pledge will allow your business/company logo to be displayed in the opening credits as project sponsors, and featured in the special thanks segment in the closing credits of the Documentary.
$1000 Corporate Sponsor
$1000 Corporate Sponsorship Pledge A $1000 Pledge will allow your business/company logo to be displayed in the opening credits as project sponsors, and featured in the special thanks segment in the closing credits of the Documentary. Your business/company will also have a small feature/mention in a segment of the Documentary.