Pedal for Paws: A Journey of Compassion Across India
For Priyesh Shukla, life took a dramatic turn in 2019 when he founded "Help Voiceless Babies," an initiative dedicated to animal welfare. It started as a small effort among friends in 2014, rescuing stray animals and providing them with medical care. Over the years, it spread to 72 cities across India, thanks to the tireless work of volunteers. But Priyesh's vision went beyond just rescuing strays—he wanted to create a movement that could change how society viewed and treated these animals.Having heard of people journeying from Kashmir to Kanyakumari for personal causes, Priyesh felt the urge to embark on his own 4000-kilometer journey. But his mission was unique: to care for the voiceless animals along the way. With a team of volunteers in every city he passed through, he knew that each stop could mean a life saved—a sick or injured animal receiving the care it needed. His journey was not just about physical endurance; it was about spreading awareness and fostering compassion for strays.The Call to CarePriyesh's motivation stemmed from personal experiences. Living in Noida, he had become known for his kindness toward animals, with people leaving strays at his doorstep. He realized that while many were willing to feed or rescue animals, few were raising awareness about the issue. This led him to visit schools and colleges on his journey, hoping to instill values of kindness and compassion in young minds. As he saw it, these students were the future of India, and if they could learn to care for the voiceless, the country would see fewer crimes against animals.The Road Less TraveledSetting out on this epic journey was not an easy decision. Priyesh had quit a well-paid job to dedicate himself fully to his cause. The idea of cycling 4000 kilometers seemed daunting, especially since he hadn't even cycled during his school days. The plan had been in the works since 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed it. When the time finally came, Priyesh felt a sense of urgency, realizing that while he could always work to earn money, this mission was something he had to pursue now. Physically, Priyesh prepared by cycling early in the mornings, but beyond that, he left much to fate and faith. His nightly routine involved setting up camp, often at a petrol pump, and trusting that he would be safe. On days when the going got tough, the support of strangers—like an elderly shopkeeper in Kashmir who gave Priyesh the keys to his shop for a night’s rest—reminded him that he was on a noble path.Source: Google ImagesThe Power of Human KindnessThe journey has been full of challenges, from financial difficulties to the physical strain of cycling for miles on end. But Priyesh found motivation in unexpected places. Along the way, he met CRPF personnel who told him that what he was doing was akin to *tapasya*—a spiritual penance. These words stuck with him, giving him the strength to keep going. He also encountered an overwhelming amount of generosity from people who offered food, shelter, and words of encouragement, refusing payment for their kindness.In Kashmir, Priyesh's perspective shifted. "I had heard a lot of negative things about Kashmir in the media," he said, "but when I went there, I realized the place is completely different." The people he met were incredibly generous, offering him food and blessings for his mission. "Don't pay for it," they would say, "you're on a noble mission. May God be with you."Caring for the VoicelessThroughout his journey, Priyesh has maintained a strong focus on sustainability. He and his team refuse to buy new plastic bottles, instead reusing the ones they already have. At times, people offered him new bottles, but Priyesh politely declined, explaining that they didn't want to contribute to pollution. This small act of mindfulness reflects the larger philosophy of his mission: to care for not just the animals, but the planet they live on.For Priyesh, the journey is not about reaching the destination quickly. There is no strict deadline. It may take two months, or it may take six. What matters is that every stray animal in need of care gets the attention it deserves. When the team encounters a sick or injured animal, they stop to provide medical aid, no matter how long it takes.Lessons from the RoadThis journey has transformed Priyesh in more ways than one. It has deepened his faith in humanity and shown him the power of community. "There are too many good people out there," he says, reflecting on the many acts of kindness he's witnessed. "If you do good, the whole world will be good to you." He has also learned to let go of expectations and trust in the journey itself. "If you want to start on a mission," Priyesh advises, "just pack your bags and leave. Be positive, and don't look back. You will encounter challenges, but don't take a break, don't lose heart—just continue."Looking to the future, Priyesh has big plans for "Help Voiceless Babies." While volunteers in 72 cities work round the clock, he dreams of building a shelter for stray animals in Noida as well as his hometown in Mahoba. But his larger goal remains the same: to spread awareness and instill compassion in the hearts of people, especially the younger generation. Source: Google ImagesHis journey, while still ongoing, has already made an impact. Priyesh believes that this is just the beginning. With each kilometer he travels and each life he saves, he is moving closer to his ultimate goal—a nation where every stray animal is cared for and respected.Priyesh's journey serves as a powerful reminder that compassion knows no boundaries. His mission not only saves lives but also inspires others to step up and spread kindness, proving that even the smallest gestures can create lasting change in the world.
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