Caritas India, with Shanti Sadhbhavna Vikas Manch, demonstrated solidarity with Kanwar pilgrims through a three-day camp in Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar districts of western Uttar Pradesh. The initiative aimed to serve pilgrims traveling to Haridwar from various states, including Bihar, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. Over fifteen thousand pilgrims were offered fruits and energy drinks by volunteers, Peace Club children, Youth, Citizen Forum members, and the newly formed Shanti Sadhbhavna Vikas Manch.

The Kanwar Yatra, a significant pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, occurs during the Hindu month of Shravan. This annual event draws millions of devotees, particularly from northern Indian states. Caritas India’s support sought to ease the pilgrims’ journey and foster mutual harmony and peace.

The Samvaad Peace Building and Reconciliation program engaged key stakeholders and government agencies in continuous dialogue to promote unity and social harmony. The Sewa Shivir camp set up during the Kanwar Yatra served as a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal, transcending differences and showcasing compassion and solidarity.

Two camps, one in Saharanpur and another in Muzaffarnagar district , distributed fruits and energy drinks to the pilgrims. Caritas India team and volunteers also shared messages of celebrating all religious festivals together and live in harmony. Local dignitaries, including Saharanpur Chairman Haji Akram Qureshi, journalist Ashok Kumar Pundir, Executive Officer Nagar Panchayat Shahpur Mr. Deepak Kumar, and Dr. Yogendra Dudhera of the district Suraksha and Peace Committee, lauded the initiative and emphasized the importance of peace and harmony for societal development.

The local administration acknowledged and supported Team Samvaad’ s efforts, recognizing their positive impact on the Kanwar Yatra Sewa Shivir. The collective endeavor not only addressed the immediate needs of the pilgrims but also conveyed a strong message of unity and social responsibility.

Caritas India, and Shanti Sadhbhavna Vikas Manch provided services to over 15,000 Kanwar pilgrims. This initiative, part of the Samvaad Peace Building and Reconciliation Program, aimed to encourage mutual harmony and peace among diverse groups. The efforts were widely acknowledged and supported by local administration and dignitaries.

The Sewa Shivir camp served as a beacon of unity, social responsibility, and compassion. By offering aid to the pilgrims, the event emphasized the importance of solidarity and shared a powerful message of peace and harmony. Devotees from various places appreciated this inclusive approach as they journeyed to their holy destination.

Messages promoting peace and harmony were disseminated through posters, pamphlets, and Facebook Live broadcasts, reaching a broad audience. This initiative not only facilitated the pilgrims’ journey but also reinforced the essence of bringing different faiths together in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding.