– From Tardeo To Udwada –

On 7^th December, 2024, 51-year-old Viraf Randeria embarked on an extraordinary and unforgettable divine quest with his nephew, 25-year-old Kaiwan Randeria – a 200 km walk from Tardeo (South Mumbai) to the most holy, Pak Iranshah Atashbehram in Udwada, Gujarat.

“It took us 5 days to complete, and every moment was a blend of challenges, determination and faith,” shares Kaiwan. Looking to cover about 40 km per day, Viraf and Kaiwan started out fresh and motivated, at 5:00 am on Day-1. By 8:45 am, they had already covered the first 20 kms, and a quick break later, they had covered 36 kms by noon, stopping for lunch.

“Exhausted but determined, we finally wrapped up our day after 46 kms, at a resort near Vasai-Virar Road. Next day, we started at 4:30 am, but were slowed by a series of hurdles. I experienced knee pain and blisters, while my kaka struggled with an upset stomach. Limited facilities on the highway added to the delay. But despite these setbacks, we managed to complete 40 kms and stayed the night in Palghar, with the kind staff at Hotel Fern Shelter providing the much-needed first-aid!” he adds.

Day 3 – 9^th December, marked a day of steady progress even as they battled the early morning cold weather and worsening blisters, motivating each other, setting small targets and powering through 39 kms, to reach Charoti by noon. A switch in hotels to Hotel Atithi got them to conclude the day with a comforting meal. Nearing the goal on Day-4, they braved the freezing morning temperatures and tough road conditions on NH48, to reach Parsi Dairy Farm for lunch, recharging with daal-khichadi before tackling the final stretch. “Despite the challenges of walking on kaccha roads, we made it to Hotel Bhilad Gate by 3:00 pm, excited for the next, final day, Day-5, which proved to be a memorable finish!” recalls Kaiwan.

“Starting at 5:00 am, I was down with an upset stomach, but our determination carried us through. After 17 kms, the excitement and anticipation built up, we even jogged a bit to boost our energy! Finally, at Janda Chowk, just 300 meters from the Atashbehram, we held hands and walked the last stretch together. As we reached the Iranshah Atashbehram, the Geh just changed, and the bell rang – indeed it felt like a divine moment that brought tears to our eyes. Bowing before the sacred fire, we thanked Ahura Mazda for his blessings and guidance through this journey,” he shares.

When asked about his reason for taking up this though but reflective journey, Kaiwan says, “I hope this story inspires others in our community to reconnect with their spirituality and traditions,” adding, “We are deeply grateful to our family and friends for their unwavering support and motivation. This journey was a test of endurance and faith, and it’s an experience we will cherish forever!”