Konkan Coastal Walk : Conclusion

I know its been a long time since my last post, but letting the moment be and to not have the distraction of this black mirror was the best idea. How have you been? I know substack works on continuous engagement, but its okay. I assume that all of you who have subscribed for my writing/experiences surely are liking the slow-living kinda nature. You will understand my need to totally disappear from this space, only to come back with fresh ideas.

Today, the Konkan Coastal walk concluded at the Ghangaaleshwar Temple in Redi. I walked 90 days, over 900 kms. What makes this place special is that it is the residence of the protector (raakhandar). "Nature is the true God"—this is what I’ve been saying, and this place embodies that very principle. Even with large-scale mining operations going on around it, this place was saved, and the reason for that is the protector here, who deeply values nature. I want to particularly highlight that the landowners of this place were present here today. Despite being offered crores, they never sold this land. This decision came from their deep faith in nature. The young men in their thirties were well aware that one day mining would end their village. They need a different model.

The conclusion of this journey highlighted a contradiction. People had to walk through the dust and smoke of mining to reach here. It showed the devastation of the environment, but upon reaching this spot, the beauty of nature here was evident. It’s not all hopeless, nor is everything filled with hope; but I wanted to show that we are in the balance between both. That’s exactly what everyone experienced.

Over the past two or three days, Satish Kamat Sir walked with me, and he was here today. My mother and her friends came from Chiplun, like-minded people came from Ratnagiri and Malvan, and a couple from Belgaum came all the way for the conclusion. A few young people from Sindhudurg also made it a point to attend. The end of this 90-day journey was celebrated informally by a group of about 15 people. I offered some fruits, which I had received as gifts along the way, to nature and asked for blessings for the journey ahead.

I believe this is not an end; it’s a beginning. Discussions are ongoing about many aspects. It’s important to bring young and elderly people together. Where guidance is needed, it’s necessary to provide it. Real change will come when communities and people can stand on their own feet. Real change will come when farmers are connected to the right customers. Real change will come when sustainable livelihoods are created. Many young people will definitely return, but it’s essential to show them a model. You all need to keep talking about this. In all of this, your help through Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube communities will be crucial. Work has already begun in this direction.

Influencers and others who participated in this pilgrimage, though not physically, but in spirit, should definitely message me so we can brainstorm together on what we can do collectively.

This effort will also require financial support. Anyone who can contribute can reach out to this number: 8983726737 or you can alternatively contribute through paypal.

Those who can help connect me to the right people, can do so. This is not my work alone, and none of this can happen without your support. I am merely a facilitator. The task is to connect people. If this happens, countless butterflies will gently emerge from their cocoons. It is important for this chrysalis to happen. They will return to their villages, preserving their roots, and will be encouraged to live fulfilling lives, aiding the conservation of nature.

I’m deeply grateful for the love you’ve poured onto me. Now it is my tike to rest, contemplate, meet my parents, siblings, and grandparents, and then resume the next phase of work.

Thank you. I will keep it short this time.

-Ash