The holy month of Sawan has witnessed a remarkable display of devotion, family bonds, and respect for elders in Sikar, capturing widespread attention. Echoing the legendary devotion of Shravan Kumar, who carried his parents on a pilgrimage using a wooden shoulder pole, 21-year-old Rahul Kumar set out on a unique walking pilgrimage carrying his elderly grandmother, Lachhi Devi. He undertook a challenging 45-kilometer pedestrian journey where one side of the kawad held his grandmother sitting on a wooden platform, while the other side carried steel pots filled with water. Rahul's journey transformed into a powerful symbol of profound respect and service toward elders alongside religious devotion.
The Route from Lohargal to Sikar
Rahul began his pilgrimage from Lohargal, a revered pilgrimage site known as the mini Haridwar of Shekhawati. Collecting holy water from the Gomukh, he set off toward his home village of Rampura. He commenced his journey on August 20 at around 2 PM. After resting for the night in Rampura on the first day and in Piprali on the second day, he reached Sikar on the third day. Upon arrival at the prominent Kalyan Temple, known as the abode of the town's presiding deity, he received a grand and warm welcome. Throughout the journey, other family members accompanied Rahul to boost his morale. On the evening of August 23, he successfully returned to his native village.
Eighty-One Kilograms Balanced on Shoulders
According to Rahul, the total weight of both pans of the kawad was approximately 81 kilograms. One side held steel pots containing 42 kilograms of water, while the other side carried his grandmother Lachhi Devi seated securely on a wooden stool. Initially, Rahul had planned to bring back about a quintal of water from Lohargal, but hearing a devotional song about Shravan Kumar inspired him to seat his grandmother in the kawad instead. Rahul noted that while carrying water in a kawad is a common practice, he wanted to create an example that would inspire society. Inspired by the thought of keeping ancient values of service alive in modern times, he placed his grandmother in the kawad and began walking.
Frequent Rests and Careful Preparation
Despite the long distance and heavy load, Rahul pressed forward with determination. To ensure perfect balance during transit, the main bamboo pole of the kawad was wrapped in foam and secured tightly with strong ropes. Reciting the name of Lord Shiva, Rahul advanced step by step, taking a brief rest roughly every 100 meters. Family members including Banwari Lal Barwar, Rohit Sharma, Indrapal Seshmal, and Manoj Barwar provided continuous assistance and support along the way.
Overwhelmed with Emotion
Seated inside the kawad, Lachhi Devi expressed deep emotional gratitude for the journey. She remarked that her children and grandchildren are wonderful for taking her on a pilgrimage at this stage of her life. She noted that the younger generation put in all the hard work and prayed that everyone receives such devoted grandchildren. With tears of emotion, she added that while her time to depart for the heavenly abode is near, her children ensured she experienced a sacred pilgrimage beforehand.
