Mobile apps come handy for Kanwariyas

ALLAHABAD: Call it technological revolution or high-tech spirituality, scores of kanwariyas heading to offer prayers at prominent Shiv temples in Kashi or Baidyanath temple in Jharkhand, are connected with each other on WhatsApp and FaceBook and other apps. This way they not only keep in touch, but also spread spirituality in virtual domain through their mobile sets.
Keeping abreast with latest technology, these kanwariyas are sharing route charts, facilities available at a particular place, progamme, schedule, etc. Besides, photos of eminent Lord Shiva temples and religious songs/discourses too are being shared on WhatsApp and other mobile apps. "Well-versed with latest mobile applications, the kanwariyas are encouraging folks back at home and companions to share all relevant information. So, don't be surprised if you come across kawariyas on the banks of the Ganga -- with water pot in one hand and mobile in the other," said Baijnath, a local panda.
Cut off physically with the outside world during their long "religious tour" in the Shrawan month, they are also spending considerable time on high-tech communication mode to connect with family members and near and dear ones and uploading their photos and comments as well. "Exchanging messages and inquiring about the wellbeing of each other has become quite handy now," said a kanwariya, Subhash, adding, "about 20-22 youths of my village are well-connected with each other," he added.
Pratik, a resident of Rewa, said: "Telecommunication and other facilities available through mobile apps are quite handy. With the availability of internet facility on mobiles, kanwariyas are also able to download route or exchanging chats on a low cost. These days young kanwariyas are interested in sending their pics as well as pics of religious dhams to relatives and friends in real time."