Pawan Khera and Manish Khanduri
As the Yatris began their later afternoon walk in somewhat hot weather they could be forgiven for thinking that it was going to be a long and weary 10 kilometres. But instead, energised by the massive crowds and their participation, they made short work of the distance from Kothur to Muchintal.
“It’s remarkable how many people are turning up to support us at all times” stated Padmasree Sunkara, Yatri from Andhra Pradesh. Indeed there were long stretches on the highway which appeared to be absolutely packed.
Yatris Nandita Hooda (left) and Padmasree Sunkara and get to know the local kids
Today we would like to make a special reference to someone who has humbled us with his zeal and commitment to join the Yatra. Surya Sharma, a native of Himachal Pradesh is a special needs individual, who was so inspired by the ideals of the #BharatJodoYatra that he independently came all the way to walk with us. We can only convey to you our deepest regard, Mr Sharma.
Surya Sharma from Himachal Pradesh is inspiring us with his devotion to the Yatra and decision to walk with us
Speaking at a press conference in the afternoon, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi outlined the deleterious impact of the BJP/RSS ideology on the nation. He said that “A lot of damage has been done to the institutional framework of our country.” He also spoke about capitalism and its impact on the economy. “If you look at what is happening to small and medium businesses in the country, what is happening to the job creation structure of this country, essentially it has been destroyed and today India is unable to produce jobs.”
Tomorrow the Yatris will walk into Hyderabad city, and in the early evening hoist the national flag at Charminar. They will then walk to take their evening break at the Indira Gandhi statue on Necklace road. It should be something to watch!
Currently in the state of Telangana, the Bharat Jodo Yatra is a five month, 3500 kilometre long Padyatra from Kanyakumari in the South of India to Kashmir up in the North. It is part of the party’s national mass outreach program aimed at highlighting social polarisation, economic inequalities and political centralisation.
Ground research: Aparna Ashwarya (INC Communications Department research team)
End of Day Travel Facts
1. Current District Names: Ranga Reddy district
2. Ranga – Reddy district is known for its famous film studio complex, Ramoji Film City. The major attractions for tourists are Osman Sagar Lake and Ananthagiri Hills. Maheshwaram is a well-known pilgrimage centre in the district.
3. Shadnagar in Ranga – Reddy district is home to to the ISRO centre (NRSC), known for data reception from various satellites.
4. Burgula Ramakrishna Rao won from Shadnagar constituency’ (MLA) in the first sovereign elections held in 1952, to become the first Chief Minister of the then Hyderabad.
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