Padayatra - Walking for the sake of walking.

In a world that is constantly evolving, where environmental challenges and social inequities persist, it takes individuals with a vision and a deep sense of purpose to bring about positive change. Meet me , a civil engineer by degree who consciously chose to work in the alternative sector on environment, social, and livelihood projects. Inspired by the Bhoomi fellowship on Sustainable Living and Management Sciences, and fueled by a passion for yoga, spirituality, and sustainable lifestyle, I had embarked on a transformative journey that little did I know would forever alter my perspective on life.

Walking for the Sake of Walking: A Buddhist Sadhana:

Amidst the chaos of the modern world, there is a practice deeply rooted in the Buddhist tradition – walking for the sake of walking, or padayatra. This spiritual practice involves embarking on a journey on foot with a focus on mindfulness, self-reflection, and connecting with the world around us. I decided to embrace this ancient practice which my friend Guru maa gifted just before I started my solo 200-kilometer padayatra in Karnataka in 2018.

During this remarkable journey, I experienced a profound connection with the people and the land it traversed. By immersing myself with the communities and interacting firsthand with the local residents, I broke free from the confines of media-fed information and bookish knowledge. This personal engagement fostered a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the people and the environment, inspiring me to take some action.

Realization:

The Need for Rama Rajya:

Along my padayatra, I was struck by the paradox of the fights for Ram and Ram Mandir in contemporary society. Rather than focusing on religious disputes, I came to realize the dire need for Rama Rajya – an ideal state where justice, equity, and sustainable development prevail. This realization dawned upon me as I witnessed the plight of farmers, the majority of the population struggling with their livelihoods, and the fate of agriculture if the younger generation refuses to continue the farming tradition.

The Plight of Farmers and the Inevitable Need for Migration:

In India, farmers face numerous challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns to the burden of debt and lack of government support. The plight of farmers is further exacerbated by the fact that they do not wish for their children to endure the same struggles, leading to a decline in the agricultural workforce. Consequently, migration becomes the only viable option for the younger generation seeking education, employment, and a better life.

Sustainable Solutions and United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals:

To address the multifaceted challenges faced by farmers and promote sustainable development, it is crucial to adopt a holistic approach. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for creating positive change in areas such as poverty eradication, sustainable agriculture, quality education, and climate action.

Implementing sustainable farming practices, such as natural farming, organic farming and agroecology, can improve farmers' livelihoods while safeguarding the environment. Encouraging the youth to pursue careers in agriculture through comprehensive education programs and financial incentives can revitalize the farming sector. Moreover, empowering farmers with access to credit, irrigation facilities, and advanced technologies can enhance productivity and reduce dependency on unpredictable weather conditions.

Conclusion:

My journey from a civil engineer to embracing sustainable living and community empowerment reflects the power of conscious choices and the transformative potential within each of us. During this padayatra, I discovered the essence of connection, empathy, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of pressing environmental and social challenges. Through collective efforts and a commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, we can create a world that harmoniously embraces the principles of Rama Rajya