Kanwar Yatra 2024: 24-hour care and support

VMRK organized 53 kanwar camps across eight states and two union territories

Planning, preparation, and setup

VMRK began planning for these camps well in advance, keeping in mind that during the Sawan month, the summer monsoon brought humid weather and heavy rain. When VMRK volunteers scouted for suitable locations for the camps, they considered two key criteria. First, locations were selected along routes that were expected to be heavily traveled by kanwarias. Second, they set about renting large, roofed halls at these locations to protect against the monsoon rain, heat, and humidity. Where suitable facilities were unavailable, waterproof tents were arranged instead. Additionally, to ensure a continuous supply of power, electricity generators were also rented.

The VMRK camps were set up in accordance with the safety measures and hygiene guidelines issued by the local, state, and central authorities. Dedicated areas were set up at each camp for medical services, food preparation, food distribution, and resting facilities. VMRK volunteers were organized into teams that were assigned different duties. Members of these teams were rostered to provide a 24-hour service to the kanwarias at each camp.

Medical support for kanwarias

Given the strenuous nature of the pilgrimage, kanwarias often required medical care. Many who stopped at the camps had blisters, foot sores, injuries, and body aches. They also experienced weather-induced symptoms such as fever, cold, and cough.

A team of medical professionals and volunteers served around the clock at the medical camp. The kanwarias received medical consultation, first aid, and medicines free of cost. To reduce muscular pain and fatigue, physiotherapy treatment or foot massage services were also offered to the kanwarias at certain camps.

The kanwarias observe variations of pilgrimages—some are free to stop and rest as needed, some cannot let their kanwar touch the ground, or hang it on a post to take rest, etc. Kanwarias carrying daak kanwar must walk continuously. To serve them, the medical team went the extra mile by walking alongside while spraying pain relievers on their injuries while the kanwarias continued walking.

Meals and refreshments for kanwarias

At each camp, VMRK prepared and served fresh and hot vegetarian meals consisting of seasonal vegetables, dal, rice, and chapati to the kanwarias. Fruit, sweet lime juice, freshly squeezed lemonade, milk, and tea were served to the kanwarias who fasted or opted for light meals. The kitchen crew operated around the clock to ensure that all kanwarias, arriving at any time during the day or night, were served.

Knowing that many kanwarias chose to keep going and did not to stop to take rest, some kanwar camps set up a table outside to serve them refreshments as they walked past the camps.

Fully serviced clean resting places and hygiene services

The resting areas at the kanwar camps were designated separately for male and female kanwarias. These areas were furnished with mattresses and were equipped with fans and/or air coolers. The camps were quiet, creating a comfortable environment for kanwarias to rest and sleep. Also, to maintain the sanctity of the devotional atmosphere, alcohol and smoking were strictly prohibited.

Each camp offered separate male and female washroom facilities. A team of sanitation volunteers ensured that the camp premises, including washrooms, were kept clean and hygienic at all times.

At one location, heavy rainfall resulted in a significant increase in the number of kanwarias taking shelter at the camp. In response, VMRK rented an additional hall in the vicinity of the camp to ensure there was ample resting space for the kanwarias.

Other supportive services

The VMRK kanwar camps also offered a range of other services. Each camp had a kanwar holding point for placing kanwars and mobile charging points. VMRK volunteers at some camps also mended the kanwarias’ clothes torn in the armpits from holding their kanwar over long distances.

To ensure the safety of the kanwar camps as well as the belongings of the kanwarias, security volunteers were stationed at each camp. Additionally, CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers were installed to enhance safety and security.

Visitor feedback

Appreciative of the services provided at the VMRK kanwar camps, kanwarias frequently asked for the locations of other VMRK kanwar camps along the journey. They were eager to plan the next leg of their pilgrimage, aiming to cover specific distances each day in order to rest at the next VMRK camp. Additionally, authorities who inspected the VMRK kanwar camps were pleased with the level of service.

Many kanwarias expressed their satisfaction and appreciation for the services provided by VMRK by recording their feedback in the visitor book. Some are listed below: