Shankara to Sharda: My Journey from Kalady to Kashmir
July 13, 2025
  • Read Ecopy
  • Circulation
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
Organiser
  • ‌
  • Bharat
    • Assam
    • Bihar
    • Chhattisgarh
    • Jharkhand
    • Maharashtra
    • View All States
  • World
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • North America
    • South America
    • Africa
    • Australia
    • Global Commons
  • Editorial
  • International
  • Opinion
  • Op Sindoor
  • More
    • Analysis
    • Sports
    • Defence
    • RSS in News
    • Politics
    • Business
    • Economy
    • Culture
    • Special Report
    • Sci & Tech
    • Entertainment
    • G20
    • Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav
    • Vocal4Local
    • Web Stories
    • Education
    • Employment
    • Books
    • Interviews
    • Travel
    • Law
    • Health
    • Obituary
    • Podcast
MAGAZINE
  • ‌
  • Bharat
    • Assam
    • Bihar
    • Chhattisgarh
    • Jharkhand
    • Maharashtra
    • View All States
  • World
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • North America
    • South America
    • Africa
    • Australia
    • Global Commons
  • Editorial
  • International
  • Opinion
  • Op Sindoor
  • More
    • Analysis
    • Sports
    • Defence
    • RSS in News
    • Politics
    • Business
    • Economy
    • Culture
    • Special Report
    • Sci & Tech
    • Entertainment
    • G20
    • Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav
    • Vocal4Local
    • Web Stories
    • Education
    • Employment
    • Books
    • Interviews
    • Travel
    • Law
    • Health
    • Obituary
    • Podcast
Organiser
  • Home
  • Bharat
  • World
  • Operation Sindoor
  • Editorial
  • Analysis
  • Opinion
  • Culture
  • Defence
  • International Edition
  • RSS in News
  • Magazine
  • Read Ecopy
Home Bharat

Shankara to Sharda: My Journey from Kalady to Kashmir

The epic journey, from the lush green backwaters of his birth to the mystical, snow-capped peaks of Kashmir, was no mere physical expedition; it was a 'Digvijaya' – a conquest of intellectual and spiritual ideas, aimed at revitalizing Sanatana Dharma and propagating his Advaita Vedanta philosophy

by Jithin Lal
Jun 27, 2025, 08:30 pm IST
in Bharat, Culture, Jammu and Kashmir
FacebookTwitterWhatsAppTelegramEmail

As the first rays of dawn illuminated the sacred town of Kalady, the birthplace of the revered Adi Shankaracharya, I stood beside my motorcycle, the tricolor fluttering proudly against the early morning sky. Kalady, steeped in profound spiritual significance, had always been a source of inspiration. On that day, however, it transcended its geographical location, becoming the commencement of a journey that would transcend geographical boundaries and ideological divisions. My name is Jithin Lal, a member of the Core-Committee, and I was poised to embark on a humble participation in a historic mission known as the Chalo LoC Movement a journey from the southern heart of India to its northern frontier.

This expedition was not merely a physical traversal of kilometers; it was an awakening of consciousness. We were not engaged in a conflict with arms; rather, we moved to the borders with a spiritual flame burning within our hearts, carrying the aspiration to reclaim a lost legacy Sharada Peeth, the ancient seat of knowledge now severed from Indian soil by decades of geopolitical strife.

The driving force behind this historic movement was a man of unparalleled valor and vision ChaloLoc Team . A decorated former military officer, a spiritual teacher, and a patriot in the truest sense, Captain Ramanand became the catalyst behind this initiative. Unlike conventional protests or demonstrations, his response to national tragedy was action rooted in Dharma. The concept of “Chalo LoC” did not originate in a committee room or an air-conditioned office; it emerged from a Facebook post written from the depths of grief and conviction following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where valiant Indian soldiers sacrificed their lives.

As the nation mourned, Captain Ramanand posed a simple yet profound question: What will we, the ordinary citizens, do in response to such a tragedy?

His response was not anger, but resolve. Not violence, but vichar (thought) and vyavahar (action). Thus began a spiritual movement enveloped in a biker’s journey Kalady to LoC, thousands of kilometers on two wheels, carrying not weapons but intent.

My Own Decision: A Journey of Inner Calling

My participation was neither planned nor pressured; it emanated from within. I had always harbored a profound sense of duty toward Bharat a duty shaped by the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, the revolutionary vision of Swami Vivekananda, and the nationalist spirit of Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Raised amidst tales of saints and warriors, tapasya, and tyaga (sacrifice), I often pondered the possibility of traversing their footsteps, even in the smallest capacity.

The Chalo LoC Movement provided the catalyst for this realization.

Sharada Peeth: The Soul Across the Border

To comprehend the true purpose of this yatra, it is essential to grasp the significance of Sharada Peeth. Alongside Nalanda and Takshashila, Sharada Peeth once constituted a pivotal institution in ancient Indian education. Situated in present-day Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, it served as a temple of learning where scholars delved into Vedic scriptures, Sanskrit literature, and spiritual disciplines. Numerous traditions attest to the fact that even Adi Shankara visited the shrine during his Digvijaya Yatra.

Today, Sharada Peeth lies in silence isolated from Indian pilgrims, decaying under foreign control, and forgotten by most. However, for us, it symbolizes not loss, but longing a profound spiritual ache that transcends any boundary.

For Captain Ramanand and those who joined him, Sharada Peeth embodies the intellect of India, akin to Kailasa representing its soul and Kashi its vital force. Reclaiming its memory is not an aggressive act; rather, it is a restorative endeavor.

Kalady: Where the Flames Were Ignited

The movement’s spiritual tone was established from its inception Kalady, the birthplace of Shankara himself. The decision to commence from this sacred land was not accidental. A millennium ago, Adi Shankara embarked on a journey across Bharat to harmonize its spiritual essence. The Chalo LoC Yatra, in many respects, was a continuation of that Sanatana Sankalpa.

Prior to departure, we sought blessings from the esteemed Acharyas and priests of Kalady. The Tiranga was consecrated and entrusted to us not merely as a flag, but as a living manifestation of Bharat Mata herself. I donned a saffron scarf upon my head, bowed in reverence, and commenced the engine. In my presence stood individuals from diverse walks of life sadhus, students, medical professionals, motorcycle enthusiasts, retired soldiers, and even young boys and girls who had never ventured beyond their hometowns.

As the wheels rolled out, a collective spirit lifted us. The narrow lanes of Kalady trembled with chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Jai Sharada Peeth!” Elderly mothers blessed us with tears in their eyes. Children ran beside us. Strangers waved the national flag. It felt less like a commencement and more like a sacred procession.

The Road, The Struggles, The Brotherhood

The road from Kalady to Kashmir presented formidable challenges. Across eight states and exceeding 3,500 kilometers, we encountered extreme weather conditions, mechanical malfunctions, physical exhaustion, and even hostile glances from those who failed to comprehend our motivations. However, we also discovered India the authentic India.

In Tamil Nadu, a family halted us to offer tea and prasadam. In Maharashtra, a mechanic declined payment, stating, “You are traversing for Bharat Mata I will not charge you.” In Madhya Pradesh, we were hosted by schoolchildren who recited poems about freedom. In Delhi, we were honored by former servicemen and nationalist leaders.

Nevertheless, the most significant morale boost came in the form of unwavering support from BJP State President Sri Rajeev Chandrasekhar Ji, who acknowledged the vision and significance of our movement. His words of encouragement, his spiritual alignment with the mission, and his assistance in navigating critical areas provided both institutional and emotional support.

Equally inspiring was the behind-the-scenes coordination and blessings of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Kerala. The swayamsevaks, wherever we passed, stood ready with food, fuel, and first aid. In cities and remote villages alike, they embodied the ideal of “Seva is Dharma.” Their invisible hands propelled the mission forward when fatigue or logistics threatened to derail it.

Not merely a Rally A Revival

At each major stop, we conducted brief programs: cultural performances, speeches, spiritual discourse, and awareness sessions. Many were unaware of Sharada Peeth, but all responded with fervent enthusiasm when we spoke of Bharat’s forgotten temples, the theft of knowledge, and the fragmentation of unity.

We were not rallying for a political party, nor against a community. We were rallying for Bharat, for its essence, its memory, and its future.

This movement revived something lost in many hearts a sense of belonging, of continuity, and of civilizational pride. It was Bharat awakening not in anger, but in awareness.

Reaching Kashmir: Beyond the Borderline

Crossing into Jammu and Kashmir was emotionally overwhelming. As we entered Srinagar, holding the Tiranga aloft, we were greeted by security personnel, civilians, and students. Some were curious, others moved.

At a vantage point near the Line of Control, we unfurled the Indian flag and held a moment of silence for the martyred soldiers. We chanted prayers for Sharada Peeth, facing the invisible barrier that now separates it from us.

In my reverie, I envisioned ancient scholars traversing those majestic mountains, their scriptures held high, their voices resonating with mantras of unity and liberation. The wind carried a sense of reverence, while the earth trembled with the echoes of history.

In that moment, I comprehended that Sharada Peeth transcended its physical location. It served as a summons to our dharma, to our heritage, and to our Bharatiya identity.

Reflection: The Significance of Chalo LoC

When individuals inquire today, “Was it merely a bicycle excursion?” I respond with a smile.

It was not merely a journey; it was a profound practice of self-discipline known as Tapasya.
It was not a protest; it was a fervent prayer, a prarthana
It was not a fleeting moment; it was a transformative movement.

I commenced as a solitary rider, but I returned as a representative of a civilizational endeavor a mission to restore India’s spiritual backbone, to evoke forgotten accomplishments, and to inspire youth to transcend political affiliations and fleeting trends.

The guidance of esteemed leaders such as Vivek Dadakar Ji Girish kumar Ji , VijiTambi sir ,the unwavering support of Rajeev Chandrasekhar Ji BJP State President Kerala, the meticulous organization of RSS Kerala, and the blessings bestowed upon us by saints and acharyas collectively transformed this pilgrimage into a sacred procession, not merely a triumph.

Final Message: Chalo LoC Signifies the Dawn of a New Era

Although Sharada Peeth may remain beyond our immediate vicinity for the time being, the essence of Sharada the goddess of knowledge, the force of unity, and the spirit of Bharat Mata has awakened within the hearts of thousands.

We did not reclaim a temple; rather, we revived a profound truth.

We did not engage in combat; instead, we confronted apathy.

The Chalo LoC Movement did not conclude; rather, it heralded the commencement of a new chapter in the realm of civilizational responsibility.

For me, S Jithin Achu this journey has metamorphosed into a life-long endeavor.

From the fertile soil of Kalady to the winds of Kashmir, I carried the essence of Bharat Mata within my heart, and she, in turn, guided me every step of the way.

Jai Hind. Jai Sharada Peeth. Bharat Matha ki Jai

Topics:
ShareTweetSendShareSend
✮ Subscribe Organiser YouTube Channel. ✮
✮ Join Organiser's WhatsApp channel for Nationalist views beyond the news. ✮
Previous News

Kashmir Unbound: A New Dawn After Article 370

Next News

False equivalence and economic hit-men

Related News

Representative image

Timeless beauty of Cuttack Silver filigree craft

Time for ‘Operation Swadeshi’ to Counter Economic Colonisation

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain

“No controversy in voter revision drive, ECI running campaign with good intentions”: BJP leader Shahnawaj Hussain

Representative image

India takes final steps to end Maoist insurgency

India faces new security threats from Bangladesh under Yunus regime

Representative image

India leads the charge for climate justice

Load More

Comments

The comments posted here/below/in the given space are not on behalf of Organiser. The person posting the comment will be in sole ownership of its responsibility. According to the central government's IT rules, obscene or offensive statement made against a person, religion, community or nation is a punishable offense, and legal action would be taken against people who indulge in such activities.

Latest News

Representative image

Timeless beauty of Cuttack Silver filigree craft

Time for ‘Operation Swadeshi’ to Counter Economic Colonisation

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain

“No controversy in voter revision drive, ECI running campaign with good intentions”: BJP leader Shahnawaj Hussain

Representative image

India takes final steps to end Maoist insurgency

India faces new security threats from Bangladesh under Yunus regime

Representative image

India leads the charge for climate justice

Representative Image

“Conspiracy Against Maharaja”: Kashmiri Pandits recount 1931 carnage on July 13

India’s final war cry against Pak-sponsored terrorism

A representative image

People from Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar found with Aadhaar, domicile, ration cards during SIR drive in Bihar: Sources

A representative image

Indian army carried out cross-border drone strikes on ULFA-I, NSCN(K) camps in Myanmar; Report militant causalities

  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Cookie Policy
  • Refund and Cancellation
  • Delivery and Shipping

© Bharat Prakashan (Delhi) Limited.
Tech-enabled by Ananthapuri Technologies

  • Home
  • Search Organiser
  • Bharat
    • Assam
    • Bihar
    • Chhattisgarh
    • Jharkhand
    • Maharashtra
    • View All States
  • World
    • Asia
    • Africa
    • North America
    • South America
    • Europe
    • Australia
    • Global Commons
  • Editorial
  • Operation Sindoor
  • Opinion
  • Analysis
  • Defence
  • Culture
  • Sports
  • Business
  • RSS in News
  • Entertainment
  • More ..
    • Sci & Tech
    • Vocal4Local
    • Special Report
    • Education
    • Employment
    • Books
    • Interviews
    • Travel
    • Health
    • Politics
    • Law
    • Economy
    • Obituary
    • Podcast
  • Subscribe Magazine
  • Read Ecopy
  • Advertise
  • Circulation
  • Careers
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Policies & Terms
    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookie Policy
    • Refund and Cancellation
    • Terms of Use

© Bharat Prakashan (Delhi) Limited.
Tech-enabled by Ananthapuri Technologies