A Grand Union of Service and Spirituality
During the auspicious Rath Yatra in Puri, a monumental food service initiative is underway, showcasing a unique blend of corporate social responsibility and spiritual devotion. In a significant collaboration, the Adani Group and ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) have joined forces to operate a massive "Prasad Seva." This effort distributes free, nutritious, and hygienically prepared meals to millions of pilgrims and frontline workers attending the nine-day festival, an event that draws one of the largest religious congregations in the world.
The Scale of the Mega Kitchen
The heart of this initiative is a state-of-the-art mega kitchen, a hub of relentless activity staffed by a dedicated force of over 5,000 volunteers. This diverse team, which includes hundreds of women from across India, works in shifts around the clock. Their ambitious goal is to distribute nearly four million meals and beverages over the course of the festival. To manage this logistical feat, a network of distribution points has been established at key locations throughout Puri. Sites like the railway station, the main bus stand, and areas near the Gundicha Temple have been transformed into vibrant centers of selfless service, ensuring that prasad is accessible to as many people as possible.
A Commitment to Nutrition and Hygiene
The food, known as "prasad" or sanctified food, is prepared with meticulous care, focusing on both nutrition and purity. The menu is thoughtfully designed to be wholesome and balanced, providing essential energy for devotees who often walk long distances in the summer heat. A typical meal includes hot rice, soft rotis, mixed seasonal vegetables, and protein-rich dal. To provide comfort and refreshment, cooling curd rice is also served, along with sweets like gulab jamuns. Each plate is designed to deliver a substantial 700-900 calories and over 20 grams of protein.
Hygiene is paramount in this sacred endeavor. The operation adheres to ISKCON's renowned standards of cleanliness, which treat food preparation as a sacred duty. This includes strict personal hygiene for volunteers, who often bathe and wear fresh attire before entering the kitchen, and the use of dedicated, thoroughly cleaned utensils. In keeping with spiritual tradition, the food is not tasted during preparation as it is first offered to the deity. These practices are supplemented with modern safety protocols, such as volunteers wearing gloves for serving and the use of biodegradable paper plates. An efficient waste disposal system is also in place at each site, reflecting a comprehensive approach to health and sanitation.
The Inspiring Spirit of Seva
The entire initiative is driven by the spirit of 'seva', or selfless service. The dedication of the thousands of volunteers is the true engine of this massive undertaking. Setting a powerful example, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, along with his wife Priti Adani, personally participated in the 'Prasad Seva'. They helped in the preparation and distribution of food, underscoring the group's belief that "Service is Worship." This act of leadership, rooted in humility, has been widely praised for reinforcing India's enduring tradition where serving humanity is seen as the highest form of devotion. This collaboration is more than just a large-scale food drive; it is a meticulously planned operation that honors spiritual sanctity while meeting the practical needs of millions with dignity and care.
