Karnataka Couple's Environmental Yatra Culminates on Valentine's Day
Mangaluru-based farmer Nithyananda Shetty and his wife, author Ramya, will bring their 'Gubbachi Goodu Karnataka Yatra' to a close on Valentine's Day, February 14. This symbolic date underscores their shared dedication to environmental preservation and love for nature.
A Journey Through Schools and Districts
The second phase of their extensive yatra commenced in October of last year, forming a crucial part of their broader 'Gubbachi Goodu' campaign, which was initially launched back in 2017-18. Over the years, this dynamic duo has traversed government schools spread across all 31 districts of Karnataka, diligently spreading awareness about the critical importance of bird conservation.
"So far, we have covered 454 schools and will add five more before concluding the journey on Saturday," Shetty revealed. "The response from schools in north Karnataka has been amazing. Teachers from Turuvekere, Gadag, and Davanagere went the extra mile to accommodate our sessions."
Their mission has consistently emphasized maintaining greenery to protect biodiversity and has actively promoted the installation of bird feeders in both homes and educational institutions.
Overcoming Challenges on the Road
However, the journey was not without its significant obstacles. Traveling in a modest minivan, the family faced the considerable challenge of identifying and gaining access to schools. There were multiple instances where they were denied permission to conduct their sessions.
"For example, we planned to cover seven schools in Bagalkot on a Friday but managed to visit only three," Shetty recounted. Despite these setbacks, encouragement from numerous dedicated teachers provided the motivation to persevere. "In some schools, teachers urged us to continue this journey further," he added.
A Family United by Passion and Purpose
Ramya, speaking about her husband's deep-seated passion for culture and conservation, highlighted that the couple has also conducted extensive research on traditional practices like kambala. Their environmental commitment is deeply rooted, beginning at home where they have dedicated two full acres of their land exclusively for birds, creating a safe, year-round habitat that attracts various species.
Accompanied by their two daughters, Nisarga and Prakruthi, the family transformed the yatra into a profound, living lesson in love, sustainability, and togetherness. "We grew stronger as a family and also got to understand the condition of government schools across the state," Ramya explained. "We traveled every alternate week, and our journey will continue in spirit."
This Valentine's Day, as they conclude their physical travel, their message of conservation and community engagement continues to resonate, marking a heartfelt culmination to a mission driven by environmental stewardship and familial bond.
