ALLAHABAD- Ganga Action Parivar organized a special procession today of 5,000 school children from thirty Allahabad-area schools, to inspire them in solidarity and support for saving the Ganga and Yamuna Rivers. The students paraded through the grounds of the Kumbh Mela, singing songs and carrying hand-made signs, some of which stated, “Ganga’s Rights are Our Rights.”
Completing their procession at the Ganga Action Parivar Camp, the children were inspired by to the stirring words of HH Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, the founder of Ganga Action Parivar, as well as His Excellency Uttar Pradesh Governor, Shri B. L. Joshi, who appealed that all must come together to take action to clean and restore the Ganga.
The program was organized in order to harness and channel the energy of the youth to protect and preserve the rivers and environment of India.
Said Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, “The very future of these children depends on the health of Mother Ganga. They come here today to say to the world, ‘save our future. We must all join hands to ensure our holy rivers are kept clean and serene.’ Hearing their voices is an inspiration that should motivate us all.”
The students also participated in a unique slogan writing competition, for which they created poetic verses about the importance of rejuvenating the Ganga River for their generation and future g enerations. From these, the children created artistic placards, which they carried with them on their procession, singing, “Jai Ganga Maiya” to the beat of drums. Later, the students performed a graceful dance tribute to the Ganga, moving many audience members tears.
At the Ganga Action Parivar camp, HE Governor, Sri B. L. Joshi, personally presented awards to the winning slogan writers. Afterwards, all participants received tree saplings, which they will plant in their own communities.
Said Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, “His Excellency is truly a Green Governor, first, leading Uttarakhand and now Uttar Pradesh, from whom many can learn. Today, at the sangam, we saw a new generation transforming into a clean generation under his leadership.”
Added Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, “Every day, these beautiful students sing our national anthem with great love. Now they are learning that their divine country includes, of course, every street, every river and every corner. We are helping them channel their patriotism and love for their country into specific local action. Today, that great love was put to action through their work towards ensuring a cleaner, greener Ganga.”
