CONVERGENCE OF SPIRITUAL, CULTURAL AND SOCIAL AWAKENING
Over 1000 youth embark on a journey to Lakshadweep with Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji
In an unprecedented convergence of a spiritual, cultural and social awakening, Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur along with over 1100 youth recently embarked on a transformative journey to the serene Lakshadweep Islands.
The gathering was accorded a state welcome by Shri Harshit Saini, Deputy Collector-cum-CEO Central Group of Islands (Agatti & Bangaram) along with the local administration.
After a tour of Agatti Island with government representatives, Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji blessed the land with meditation and sacred chants as the youth immersed in devotion by the shores. The event saw the recitation of the National Anthem by all the youth on the beach.
The land of Lakshadweep was sanctified by Pujya Gurudevshri’s divine presence, the first time ever. This trip reinforced Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Explore Indian Islands” campaign, marking Lakshadweep as the present-day idyllic destination of choice.
“We'll cherish these memories of Lakshadweep's tropical charm and spread the word about visiting mindfully without damaging the fragile environment,” remarked Vyoma Sanghavi, age 25, from Mumbai.
Putting into action Pujya Gurudevshri’s mission statement, “Realise One’s true self and serve others selflessly,” selfless service played a pivotal role during the retreat. The youth also dedicated time to give back to the local communities and the ecosystem.
As a symbol of long-term commitment to the area by Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, Pujya Gurudevshri visited a local school and distributed educational aids, sports equipment, grocery kits and a television set as a gesture of compassion for over hundreds of students. The children of Govt. Junior Basic School, North Agatti, welcomed Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji with an endearing performance.
The trip also marked the presentation of the framed photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and his spiritual guide Shrimad Rajchandraji, to be placed at the Lakshadweep Administrator’s Office.
In addition to service activities, the youth also immersed themselves in local culture through traditional dance performances, multiple water sports activities, sampling local cuisine and browsing handmade crafts. Magical sunrises spent meditating on the beach renewed their sense of purpose. “This retreat has empowered us to appreciate nature, serve communities and become explorers - both of outer and inner worlds,” said participant Ruhil Doshi from Mumbai. “Lakshadweep's tranquillity and charm have left a lasting impact on our hearts.”
This inspirational spiritual journey succeeded in revealing Lakshadweep's treasures - the unexplored gem of India - and inviting the rest of the country to experience it too.