In a remarkable and inspiring initiative, Balakrishna Guru Swami embarked on a padayatra, walking over 5,100 kilometers from Kashmir to Kanyakumari over the span of 182 days. Beginning on September 27, 2024, from the sacred Adi Shankara Mandir in Srinagar and culminating at the iconic shores of Kanyakumari on March 27, this journey has been more than just a physical endeavor; it represents a deeper commitment to the values of environmental preservation and animal welfare.
With the mantra “Save cow, save earth, save environment, save our country,” Balakrishna Guru Swami brought attention to the plight of indigenous cows, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. The sight of the little desi cow accompanying him along the way served as a poignant reminder that these animals are not merely livestock, but sacred beings intertwined with our cultural and ecological ethos. The staggering fact that over 100,000 cows are sent to slaughterhouses daily underlines the urgency of this mission.
At the core of the padyatra was the principle that cows have no religion or caste. They are a vital part of our environment and agriculture, especially within the context of Sanatan Dharma. Balakrishna Guru Swami emphasized the important role of indigenous cows in restoring the health of our soil—a critical issue exacerbated by the prevalence of chemical farming which has decimated microbial life in the earth. Without these microbes, the very foundation of our agricultural systems is at risk, potentially leading to a future where sustainable food production becomes impossible.
The benefits of using cow urine and dung are manifold; they nurture the soil and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. In an astonishing tribute to scientific innovation, Japan even launched a rocket powered by cow dung, showcasing the potential of these organic materials. Furthermore, studies in the United States highlight the importance of cow-hugging as a therapeutic practice to alleviate mental stress—demonstrating that the bond between humans and cows can bring both emotional and environmental healing.
The message of Balakrishna Guru Swami resonates beyond just the immediate concern of animal welfare. It is a call to action for everyone to take responsibility for preserving our indigenous cows, which are not just a part of our agricultural heritage but essential for the health of our planet. As he walked through 14 states, Guru Swami encouraged communities to embrace traditional practices rooted in respect for animals and sustainable agriculture.
As the padyatra reached its conclusion on Samarpan Day, it served as a profound reminder of our interconnectedness with nature and the urgent need to act. By bringing the cow back into our homes and practices, as our forefathers did, we can restore balance to our lives, health, and planet. It's not only about conservation; it's about rekindling our values and nurturing the relationship we have with the earth and its creatures.
As we reflect on this incredible journey, let us heed the lessons learned and work together to ensure that the future of our Indigenous cows and the health of our ecosystems are safeguarded for generations to come.
