As the grand spectacle of Mahakumbh 2025 unfolds in Prayagraj, millions of devotees gather at the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The energy is palpable, the air is charged with devotion, and the riverbanks are alive with chants and rituals. Amidst this ocean of faith, something extraordinary caught my attention: eco-friendly water pouches being distributed to devotees.
These biodegradable pouches are part of Mission Watica, a remarkable initiative aimed at quenching thirst while safeguarding the environment. Intrigued by this unique effort, I decided to volunteer for a day and witness firsthand the profound impact of this mission.
The Genesis of Mission Watica
The seeds of Mission Watica were sown by Rohit Arya, the founder of Ek Kadam Charitable Trust, after witnessing the massive plastic waste generated during the 2024 Kanwar Mela. He envisioned a sustainable solution that would provide water to devotees without harming the environment.
The result was the introduction of eco-friendly water pouches, crafted from biodegradable materials such as corn starch and kraft paper. These pouches not only address the pressing issue of plastic waste but also symbolize a commitment to service and sustainability.
My Experience: Volunteering for a Cause
When I saw devotees gratefully accepting these pouches, I couldn’t resist joining the mission. Volunteering with Mission Watica was an enriching experience. Alongside other volunteers, I distributed pouches to thousands of pilgrims, ensuring they stayed hydrated as they performed their rituals.
The gratitude on their faces and the satisfaction of knowing that I was contributing to a cleaner environment made this experience unforgettable. It also opened my eyes to the immense effort behind such an initiative.
The Driving Force: Uday Kumar Goyal
At the heart of Mission Watica’s execution is Uday Kumar Goyal, the man managing the on-ground operations with remarkable efficiency. From overseeing pouch production to coordinating with volunteers and ensuring seamless distribution, his dedication is truly inspiring.
Speaking with Mr. Goyal, he shared,
“This mission is not just about distributing water; it’s about creating awareness and inspiring change. By reducing plastic waste, we are protecting both the environment and the sanctity of this holy gathering.”
His words reflect the mission’s ethos, which combines service, sustainability, and a vision for a cleaner future.
Support from Akhand Bharat Mission
Mission Watica’s success has been bolstered by the support of the Akhand Bharat Mission, which has provided financial and logistical assistance. The collaboration has expanded the mission’s reach, allowing it to serve not just Indian pilgrims but also foreign visitors, many of whom have joined as volunteers.
A Global Effort: Foreigners Join the Cause
What makes Mission Watica even more inspiring is its global appeal. Many foreign tourists visiting the Mahakumbh have been moved by the initiative and have stepped forward to support it.
One such volunteer, Lisa from the UK, shared her experience:
“I’ve attended many festivals worldwide, but this is the first time I’ve seen such a thoughtful and sustainable effort. I feel honored to be a part of it.”
This international participation highlights the universal importance of environmental conservation and the power of collective action.
Innovation by Ashwani Sharma
The design and production of these eco-friendly pouches have been spearheaded by Ashwani Sharma, whose innovation ensures the pouches are not only practical but also fully biodegradable. His contribution has been pivotal in making Mission Watica a success.
A Highly Recommended Initiative
Mission Watica is not just an environmental movement; it’s a call to action for every individual to take responsibility for their surroundings. Having volunteered for this mission, I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking to make a positive impact.
Whether by volunteering your time, donating resources, or simply spreading awareness, you can contribute to this noble cause. Mission Watica is proof that small, thoughtful actions can create significant change.
Join the Movement
Mission Watica is more than a project—it’s a revolution in how we approach faith, service, and sustainability. It demonstrates that devotion and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, setting a precedent for future religious and cultural gatherings.
As I reflect on my time with Mission Watica, I feel immense pride and gratitude for being part of something so meaningful. It’s not just about providing water; it’s about nurturing a better, cleaner world for generations to come.
I urge everyone to join this mission and make a difference. Together, we can ensure that faith and sustainability walk hand in hand.
