Khargon. People have unwavering faith in Mother Narmada, the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and one of the largest and most sacred rivers of the country. Every year lakhs of devotees circumambulate Mother Narmada on foot or by vehicle. But, you will also be shocked to see the faith of 60 year old Sibbu of Damoh district who is doing Narmada Parikrama these days. Actually, Sibbu has been circumambulating Mother Narmada on one leg for the last 14 months.
After completing the journey of the south coast, Sibbu, now circling the north coast, reached the religious town of Mandleshwar in Khargone district on Monday evening. Here Maa Narmada rested for the night at the shelter site and proceeded ahead on Tuesday. Meanwhile, while talking to Local 18, Sibbu of Gond tribe said that he is originally a resident of village Bhaunrasa, tehsil Patharia, district Damoh. He is an agricultural laborer by profession and does farming in the fields of others. Don’t have my own family. They build huts and reside in the fields of the farm owners. However, he has three brothers who live in the village with their family.
Started the parikrama at the request of friends
Sibbu is more than 60 years old. Three years ago, due to a disease called Gendali, his left leg had to be amputated. But, did not lose courage. On the advice of village friend Gangaram Patel (Kulmi), along with other Parikrama residents, I started Narmada Parikrama from Amarkantak on the day of Ekadashi last year.
crutch of people’s charity
Sibbu says that when he set out on Parikrama, he had only Rs 500 in his pocket. But, by the grace of Mother Narmada, there was never any problem of money. His friends got separated on the way, now he is walking alone. Travels about 15 kilometers in a day. The girl was walking barefoot for a long distance, then some people donated crutches and shoes to her. Now completing the parikrama with the help of crutches.
Next trip Mathura-Vrindavan or Chitrakoot
Annakoots and ashrams for accommodation and food are available at various places. People donate needed items. He carries a bag with him, which contains blankets, clothes to wear and worship materials. He said that it will take one more year to complete Maa Narmada Parikrama. After this, renouncing the worldly attachments, he will travel to Mathura-Vrindavan or Chitrakoot and finally stay there and spend his entire life in devotion.
Tags: Dharma Astha, Local18
FIRST PUBLISHED: December 25, 2024, 24:38 IST