GIWA under Param Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji is dedicated to driving societal change through impactful programs that enhance sanitation, hygiene, and access to clean drinking water. This year, we’re honored to participate in the Annual Kanwad Yatra, a holy pilgrimage to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located in Rishikesh is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is known as Neelkanth, literally meaning the blue-throated one.
The mythological story of the temple says that after drinking the halahal poison emitted during Samudra Manthan, to protect the universe, Lord Shiva drank that poison and held it within his throat (turning it blue), so that the nectar of immortality could emerge for the welfare of all. Hence, pilgrims flock from across the nation to Neelkanth temple where he is said to be meditated.
During the Kanwad Yatra, pilgrims travel mostly barefoot to honor Lord Shiva. GIWA, in collaboration with the state and central government, is providing essential amenities like drinking water, washrooms, and medicines to support these devoted pilgrims. Additionally, we’re organizing a free medical camp with Pujya Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji’s Divine Shakti Foundation to offer healthcare services to an estimated 20,000 devotees over the next 20 days.
Today Honourable Finance Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Suresh Kumar Khanna ji visited Parmarth Niketan and met Kanwad Yatra service team and appreciated their efforts and motivated them to do more similar seva for the welfare of people and culture.
Stay connected as we highlight GIWA’s service initiatives throughout the Kanwad Yatra for the next two weeks. Together, we can make a difference with love and compassion!
