Niwari/Bhopal, November 28: The Sanatan Hindu Ekta Padyatra, led by Bageshwar Dham Peethadhishwar Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, entered its eighth day on Thursday, departing from Niwari district headquarters towards Barua Sagar. The march saw the participation of notable figures, including Raghuraj Pratap Singh, also known as Raja Bhaiya, MLA from Kunda in Uttar Pradesh and former minister. Raja Bhaiya emphasized that while one march alone cannot bring sweeping changes, it is a crucial beginning towards societal awareness and unity.
Unity Over Division
Calling the initiative positive and commendable, Raja Bhaiya stated, “This is an important step by Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri to unite Hindu society. Some leaders deliberately promote caste divisions, weakening our nation. Caste-based discrimination is neither in the interest of the country nor the Hindu community. Efforts like these must continue to eliminate such divisions.”
He further added, “When the Hindu society is united, both religion and the nation grow stronger. Such initiatives should be ongoing to provide a new direction to society and the country.”
Rituals and Participation
Before setting out for Barua Sagar, the march participants held a flag-hoisting ceremony and sang the national anthem at the Niwari rest area. The event included the recitation of Hanuman Chalisa. Prominent leaders such as Madhya Pradesh ministers Rao Uday Pratap Singh and former Home Minister Narottam Mishra also walked alongside Pandit Shastri. Other notable attendees included Niwari MLA Anil Jain and Raja Bhaiya.
Purpose and Progress of the March
The nine-day, 160-kilometer march began on November 21 from Bageshwar Dham with the aim of addressing caste-based discrimination and raising societal awareness among Hindus. The march is set to conclude on November 29 at the Ramraja Temple in the renowned tourist town of Orchha.
On Thursday, the march covered 15 kilometers, reaching the village of Tigela near Orchha, where participants will rest for the night. The final eight kilometers will be covered on Friday, culminating in a ceremonial conclusion at the Ramraja Temple.
Cultural Significance
The march features tableaux of Shri Ram carrying a bow and arrow, along with depictions of Ayodhya and other cultural icons. These displays have garnered significant attention, adding to the march's spiritual and cultural impact.
Pandit Shastri’s initiative has sparked widespread interest, promoting messages of unity and equality while addressing longstanding issues of caste discrimination. The march reflects a broader vision of societal reform through dialogue and collective effort.
