A unique five-day journey of silent introspection and rural immersion, the 'Walk Within' initiative, was officially launched in Dharwad on Saturday. The event, organized by the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), was flagged off by Vijayalakshmi Deshamane and GC Tallur, marking the start of a profound exploration of self and community.
An Inner Journey to Understand Rural Essence
Speaking at the inauguration, the founder of SVYM, Dr. R Balasubrahmaniam, described 'Walk Within' as far more than a physical trek. He framed it as a distinctive inner journey designed for participants to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the fabric of rural India. The core objective, he stated, is to foster awareness and provide immersive exposure to the realities, culture, and wisdom of village life.
Dr. Balasubrahmaniam elaborated on the concept, explaining that 'Walk Within' involves moving in silence, in harmony with nature. It is a process of observing and understanding local culture and traditions while simultaneously encouraging inward reflection. He poignantly noted that many Indians only recognize the immense value of their ancestral villages after completing their education and moving abroad.
"India's traditional knowledge is extraordinary, and the hospitality of rural communities is exceptional," he emphasized. Drawing a clear distinction, he added, "While an external walk may be a display, an inner walk is about authenticity."
The Route and Schedule of the Trek
The inaugural leg of the walk commenced on Saturday, with participants setting off from Dharwad. The first day's route passed through the areas of Sadhanakeri and Kelgeri, concluding with a night halt at Daddikamalapur. This immersive experience is scheduled to continue until December 31st.
Over the course of these five days, the group will cover a total distance of nearly 60 kilometers. The itinerary is carefully planned to facilitate meaningful engagement with various rural communities along the path. This interaction is a fundamental component of the walk, aiming to allow participants to better grasp the essence and spirit of rural life firsthand.
Rediscovering Roots Through Silent Reflection
The 'Walk Within' initiative by SVYM represents a growing movement to reconnect urban and academic populations with India's rural heartland. By stripping away the noise of modern life through silence and replacing it with observation and interaction, the program seeks to bridge a perceptual gap. It challenges participants to look beyond infrastructure and see the profound social, cultural, and knowledge-based wealth preserved in villages.
This journey is not measured merely in kilometers walked, but in perspectives shifted and understanding deepened. As the walkers traverse the countryside until New Year's Eve, they embark on a path of authentic discovery, aligning with SVYM's broader mission of youth empowerment and community development through enlightened engagement.
