Ayodhya: Motivated by his devotion to Lord Ram and a vow taken over 30 years ago, 73-year-old Jayantilal Harjivandas Patel from Gujarat completed a 1,338-kilometre journey on foot from Mehsana to Ayodhya on Thursday.

A resident of Modipur village in Mehsana district, Jayantilal reached Ayodhya after 40 days of walking to fulfil a vow he had taken during the 1990 Somnath-Ayodhya Rath Yatra led by veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani. He covered 33–35 kilometres daily, resting and taking meals at temples, public parks, and guest houses along the way. His journey, which began on August 30, concluded after 40 days.

Upon reaching Ayodhya, Jayantilal offered prayers at Ramlalla, Ram Darbar, Bharatkund, and Guptahri Ghat, and participated in the Saryu Aarti. He also met Champat Rai, General Secretary of Karsevak Puram Teerth Kshetra.

Originally a timber and cement pipe trader, Jayantilal has retired from business and devoted himself entirely to Lord Ram. He has left Mehsana and currently lives as a monk in Haridwar. His daughter resides in the United States, while his granddaughter lives in Canada.

“His determination was truly amazing,” said Associate Pilgrimage Officer Subodh Mishra. “To complete such a long journey on foot at his age, after the temple was built, is an inspiring example of devotion.” DeshGujarat