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Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Kanwar yatra kitchen: Pure veg meals that fuel pilgrims safely
Every year during the month of Sawan, roads across North India fill with saffron-clad Kanwariyas walking long distances barefoot, carrying sacred Ganga jal for Lord Shiva. The journey is hard—marked by deep faith, strict routine, and a lot of physical effort. And what keeps them going besides faith is food. But not just any food—simple, sattvik, and comforting meals made with care at roadside kitchens known as bhandaras. These simple kitchens appear along highways, under flyovers, or next to fields, serving hot, filling vegetarian meals for free. The aim isn't fancy food, it's nourishment. The meals are made to give strength while staying light and easy to digest, which matters even more during the monsoon. Here's how this simple food keeps Kanwariyas going without making them feel too full or tired. Why purity matters here During the Kanwar Yatra, purity isn't just spiritual—it shows up on the plate too. Meals are strictly vegetarian, usually made without onion and garlic, and cooked in desi ghee or oil with devotion and care. Many pilgrims follow a brahmacharya lifestyle or eat a sattvik diet during this time, so the food matches that simplicity. You'll often find comforting dishes like aloo-tamatar sabzi, plain dal, jeera rice, rotis made over a woodfire, and sometimes kheer or halwa when there's a sweet touch. These aren't just comforting dishes—they're practical too. Light on spices and oil, yet filling enough to sustain hours of walking. Plus, no heavy cream or fried snacks means digestion stays smooth even in the monsoon humidity. Easy to cook, easy to serve Another reason this food works so well is because it's quick and easy to make in large quantities. One big pot of dal, a hot tawa full of rotis, and large buckets of sabzi can feed hundreds of pilgrims. It's the kind of food that brings people together—cooked by volunteers, served with folded hands, and eaten while sitting under a tent or tree. There's something deeply comforting about that simplicity. Here are three simple, sattvik-style dishes you can easily prepare at home: Aloo-tamatar ki sabzi This simple potato-tomato curry is commonly made during the Kanwar Yatra. Boiled potatoes are softly mashed and simmered in a tomato gravy flavoured with cumin, ginger, and gentle spices like turmeric and coriander powder. It's made without onion or garlic to keep it sattvik. The sabzi is light, slightly tangy, and pairs well with rotis or plain rice. Add some sendha namak (rock salt) if you're following vrat rules. Plain moong dal Split yellow moong dal is rinsed and pressure-cooked with water until it's soft. In a separate tadka, ghee is heated with cumin seeds, grated ginger, and a bit of hing (asafoetida), then poured over the dal. This gives the dish warmth and gentle flavour without overwhelming the stomach. It's comforting, easy to digest, and nourishing—perfect for monsoon days or when your digestion needs a break. Suji ka halwa Made with semolina, this is a quick sweet dish often served in bhandaras. Ghee is warmed in a pan and suji is slowly roasted until it turns golden and smells nutty. Water and jaggery or sugar are then added, and the mixture is stirred well until it becomes thick and shiny. A few cardamom pods add aroma, and some chopped nuts make it extra special. It's satisfying, wholesome, and gives an instant energy boost after a long walk or fast. Energy, hydration, and comfort in one plate कल से 23 जुलाई तक प्राइवेट और सरकारी स्कूल रहेंगे बंद These meals aren't just tasty—they're well planned. These meals aren't just about taste—they're made with intention. The mix of rice and dal offers good protein, sabzi brings in fibre, and a little sweet dish adds an instant lift. Even the lemon pickle served on the side has its place—it supports digestion and brings a gentle burst of freshness. With nearby stalls serving glucose water or nimbu-paani, the body stays cool and gets the hydration it needs during the journey. Faith meets food on the roadside The Kanwar Yatra isn't a time for luxury. It's about movement, devotion, and collective spirit. It shows how simple, home-style meals which is cooked with care and shared in community, can carry people through the toughest journeys. It's also a reminder for all of us to eat clean, sattvik food once in a while, to give our bodies the same kind of gentle strength and balance.
News18
5 hours ago
- News18
More Than Ganga Jal: Two Children On Kanwar Yatra Carry Hope To End Fathers' Addiction, Free Mothers
Last Updated: Both Rohit, 13, and Nitesh, 12 - are walking this sacred route to free their fathers from alcohol addiction and to save their mothers from years of domestic violence. Not the lure of wealth, success, or even the promise of a better career – it was a silent plea, one born not of ambition but of anguish, that pushed two boys from a remote village in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj district to embark upon the grueling 130-kilometre-long Kanwar Yatra. Both Rohit, 13, and Nitesh, 12 – barefoot, carrying Kanwars on their tiny shoulders – are walking this sacred route not for personal blessings, but for one heartfelt wish: to free their fathers from alcohol addiction and to save their mothers from years of domestic violence that has shattered their childhoods. Amid the massive saffron wave of Kanwariyas marching across Uttar Pradesh this year – part of an expected 6-crore strong pilgrimage – these two boys stand out not for their chants, but for their silence. Their eyes reflect not excitement, but endurance. Their feet, cracked from miles of walking, are still steady—fueled not by ritual, but by resolve. Rohit Prajapati, 13, is no stranger to this path. This is his second Kanwar Yatra. He is walking to the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, carrying Ganga jal he collected with devotion. 'My father used to drink and smoke ganja," Rohit says. 'He beat my mother and then left us. We haven't seen him at home for five or six years. I'm walking so that Bholenath changes his heart – so he comes back to us, a better man. I also pray that we become strong enough to build our own house some day." Rohit's words carry the weight of someone much older – a child forced by circumstance to shoulder burdens beyond his age. Walking beside him is 12-year-old Nitesh Prajapati, undertaking the Kanwar Yatra for the first time. Like Rohit, his home life has been consumed by fear and uncertainty. 'My father also drinks and beats my mother," Nitesh says. 'When we try to stop him, he hits us too. Now he's gone to Mumbai. I'm walking so that he stops drinking. I want him to become a good person." Despite their tender age and painful pasts, the boys speak with calm clarity. They do not complain. They walk. Faith in the Face of Fear The Kanwar Yatra, which began on July 11 this year, is an annual pilgrimage undertaken by millions of Lord Shiva's devotees during the month of Shravan. Devotees – known as Kanwariyas – carry sacred water from the Ganges and offer it at Shiva temples. This year, the yatra is witnessing unprecedented participation, including a surge in women devotees. Yet, amid the music-blaring DJ vans, loud chants, and celebratory fervour, the quiet suffering of Rohit and Nitesh tells another story – of how faith is sometimes the last refuge for children battling the demons inside their own homes. The boys are accompanied by a local elder, Chintamani, who ensures their safety during halts. They eat simple food, rest under tarpaulins or in temple courtyards, and wake before dawn to continue their journey. 'They don't talk much," Chintamani says. 'They just walk. They're determined. Their hearts are in this." The Hidden Scars of Addiction In rural India, addiction to alcohol and drugs is not uncommon, but the impact it leaves – especially on women and children – often goes unnoticed and unaddressed. With limited access to rehabilitation centres, domestic abuse reporting mechanisms, or legal support, families are often left to suffer in silence. 'These children are walking not just a spiritual path, but an emotional one," says Meena Jaiswal, a social worker based in eastern Uttar Pradesh. 'What they're doing is extraordinary – but it also reflects how deep the crisis is. When kids turn to God because there's no one else to hear them, we, as a society, must ask ourselves where we've failed." Jaiswal stresses that religious faith is not a substitute for state intervention. 'It's beautiful that they believe in Mahadev. But what they really need is support, safety, and healing." top videos View all A Cry Society Must Hear As Uttar Pradesh ramps up Kanwar Yatra logistics – including women-centric safety measures, health camps, and traffic controls – the stories like Rohit and Nitesh's often go unheard. There are no special cells for children of alcoholics, no counselling stalls for those seeking emotional refuge. Yet, here they are – walking, praying, hoping. Their voices may be small, but their journey echoes loudly: not all pilgrims come seeking more. Some come hoping for less – less pain, less fear, less silence at home. However, unlike other Shiv devotees, for Rohit and Nitesh, what is certain is their belief – not just in Lord Shiva, but in the possibility of change. 'If Baba helps my father stop drinking, I'll walk every year," says Nitesh. 'Even if my feet hurt," he adds. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : domestic violence Kanwar yatra view comments Location : Lucknow, India, India First Published: July 16, 2025, 12:57 IST News india More Than Ganga Jal: Two Children On Kanwar Yatra Carry Hope To End Fathers' Addiction, Free Mothers Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India Gazette
a day ago
- Science
- India Gazette
From AI to Ganga: New NCERT hindi book blends space, spirituality, storytelling
By Vishu Adhana New Delhi [India], July 15 (ANI): The new Class 5 NCERT Hindi textbook is taking students on a journey like never before from the world of Artificial Intelligence and space missions to the flowing story of the Ganga, its sacred journey across India, and the cultural life along its banks. Recently released by the NCERT for the 2025-26 academic year, the textbook titled 'Veena' has been developed in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to connect students with both India's scientific future and its civilisational roots. One of the standout chapters, 'Ganga ki Kahani,' captures the river's journey from Gomukh to Gangasagar, taking readers through places like Haridwar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Kolkata. It offers more than just geography, narrating tales of ashrams, sadhus, and the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela, while also introducing cities like Patna and Kanpur, blending cultural, spiritual, and economic perspectives. In sharp contrast, but equally engaging, the chapter titled 'AI' introduces students to the basics of Artificial Intelligence, how machines are trained to think, learn, and problem-solve like humans. It's designed to spark curiosity and scientific thinking among middle schoolers. The 'Gaganyaan' chapter, written in a conversational style, brings India's human spaceflight mission to life. It explains ISRO's ambitions, introduces students to the humanoid robot Vyommitra, and discusses the future of Indian space exploration. Moral reasoning and civic learning also find space. 'Nyay Ki Kursi' uses historical figures like Raja Bhoj and Vikramaditya to explain justice and fairness. 'Haathi aur Cheenti' teaches children about road safety and helmet use through a clever animal story. Other chapters spotlight Kaziranga National Park, Ajanta and Ellora, natural colour making, and Paralympic champion Murlikant Petkar, encouraging empathy, creativity, and national pride. NCERT has begun rolling out newly updated textbooks for several classes as part of its curriculum revision. While some books have already been released, the remaining ones are expected to be launched by the end of the year. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Hindustan Times
5,000 personnel, drones: Delhi Police beefs up security for Kanwar Yatra
Security has been beefed up across the national capital with more than 5,000 Delhi Police personnel and around 50 companies (more than 5000 personnel) of paramilitary forces and drones deployed to ensure a smooth pilgrimage, an official said on Tuesday. 774 locations have been identified across the city for setting up camps, and 374 kanwar camps have already been permitted, said a police officer.(File/PTI) According to the police, traffic diversions have been put in place and additional checking has been initiated on major routes from where kanwariyas are expected to pass. "The pilgrimage will continue till July 22 and culminate on Shivratri. We are in coordination with paramilitary forces and home guards who will be monitoring sensitive areas through CCTV surveillance and drone patrolling," said the police officer. Special security measures have also been planned for temple areas and designated kanwar camps where pilgrims will rest and perform rituals, he added. According to the officer, 774 locations have been identified across the city for setting up camps, and 374 kanwar camps have already been permitted. Sources in the police said that more than 150 additional camps are awaiting final approval. "The primary focus will remain on maintaining law and order, facilitating smooth traffic movement and providing immediate assistance to the pilgrims. PCR vans, quick reaction teams (QRT) and ambulances have been strategically stationed," another police officer said. Key routes such as NH-1, NH-9, and major arterial roads passing through outer, northeast, east and Shahdara districts are being closely monitored. Pilgrims carrying kanwar (decorated pots of Ganga water) on foot and in vehicles will be allowed entry via designated points. "To manage the influx, Delhi Police has released a list of entry routes for kanwariyas which includes Ghazipur border, Anand Vihar, Bhopura, Apsara, Maharajpur, Loni border and ISBT Kashmere Gate. Specific roads like Wazirabad to Bhopura, GT Road and Loni Road will also serve as major kanwar routes," the officer added. Authorities have also appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary travel through the routes notified for kanwariya movement. Emergency services and essential vehicles will be facilitated and special helplines have been activated. The officer said that senior officers of Delhi Police have directed DCPs of all 15 districts to remain present on the ground and ensure coordination with civil administration, especially for handling emergencies and regulating crowd movement. Separate teams have been tasked to address any threat perception and maintain vigil against suspicious activities during the week-long religious gathering. All SHOs have been asked to stay in touch with local camp organisers to ensure that safety norms and guidelines are being followed. Meanwhile, the Delhi government's Disaster Management Authority has kept response teams ready with water tankers, fire services, medical aid and disaster response equipment. The Kanwar Yatra witnesses lakhs of devotees every year, who travel mostly on foot from Haridwar to their local Shiva temples, carrying holy water from the Ganga to offer on Shivlingas. With rains already lashing parts of Delhi and NCR, officials said extra caution is being maintained to prevent accidents and ensure smooth passage for the pilgrims.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Science
- Hindustan Times
In a first: Calf produced using cloned Gir cow's eggs say NDRI experts
In a major breakthrough in Indian animal biotechnology, the ICAR–National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, has successfully produced a Gir calf using ovum pick-up and in vitro fertilisation (OPU-IVF) from oocytes (developing eggs) retrieved from a cloned Gir cow — a first-of-its-kind achievement in the country, experts at the institute said. The calf, born to a Sahiwal surrogate, was created from oocytes aspirated from 'Ganga', India's first cloned Gir cow. (HT Photo) The institute stated that this success highlights NDRI's leadership in cattle reproduction innovation. The entire process, which usually takes five to seven years through traditional breeding, was accomplished in just 39 months. The calf, born to a Sahiwal surrogate, was created from oocytes aspirated from 'Ganga', India's first cloned Gir cow, and fertilised with semen from a genetically superior Gir bull, according to NDRI scientists. The research team responsible for the milestone includes Manoj Kumar Singh, Ranjeet Verma, Kartikey Patel, Priyanka Singh, Nitin Tyagi and Naresh Selokar. 'Ganga' was born on March 16, 2023, through handmade cloning technology developed in-house by NDRI scientists. She matured normally and attained puberty by 18 months. At that stage, her oocytes were collected using OPU — a non-surgical, ultrasound-guided method — matured in vitro, and fertilised to generate embryos. Announcing the development on Monday, ICAR-NDRI director and vice-chancellor Dheer Singh called it a significant step toward self-reliance in dairy genetics. 'This achievement marks a revolutionary leap in improving indigenous cattle breeds. It enables faster multiplication of elite germplasm and brings science-backed prosperity to farmers,' he said. He added that the newborn Gir calf — yet to be named — is the second-generation offspring of the original elite donor and Ganga. 'The fact that this was achieved in just 39 months underscores the transformative potential of combining cloning and IVF for livestock development,' Singh said. Despite India having over 145 million female cattle and leading global milk production, challenges remain due to low per-animal productivity, Singh noted. He emphasised that integrating cloning with OPU-IVF could rapidly multiply elite indigenous animals, conserve valuable genetic resources, and address future needs for milk and high-quality breeding bulls. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) vice chancellor MS Chauhan also hailed the development. He said such technologies are crucial for building a genetically superior and productive dairy herd. NDRI scientists said that OPU-IVF enables significant improvements in dairy productivity by allowing non-invasive and repeatable oocyte collection, even from young, infertile, or early pregnant donors. The process yields more embryos per donor and supports the production of elite bulls, helping to address shortages in artificial insemination (AI) semen supply. NDRI has a strong track record in indigenous cattle research. In 2012, the institute produced the country's first OPU-IVF Sahiwal calf, named 'Holi'.
