Early wake-ups, simple meals: A camp like no other

Guru Virjanand Gurukul Mahavidyalaya in Kartarpur is set to host a residential summer camp from June 1-7, designed to offer a transformative experience for the youth. Unlike conventional camps, this programme emphasises discipline, cultural awareness and personal growth.

Participants will wake up at 4 am, begin their day with the recitation of shlokas, exercise and enjoy a simple, nutritious diet. Notably, the camp has a strict no-mobile-phone policy to encourage focused participation.

Udyan Arya, the Principal of the Mahavidyalaya, explained that the camp aims to shape youth into disciplined, empowered, and culturally conscious individuals. “This is not just a training programme but a mission to strengthen character and awaken national and cultural consciousness. It’s a transformative experience for the youth,” he stated.

The camp will follow a structured daily routine designed to instil discipline and time management. Activities include training in Sandhya, Yajna, Vedic culture and Surya Namaskar. Special emphasis will also be placed on physical development through Judo, Karate and self-defence techniques. In addition, sessions on personality development, yoga and meditation will help participants enhance their overall well-being.

“Our vision is to build a drug-free, corruption-free, pollution-free India,” said Udyan Arya, emphasising the camp’s focus on shaping a holistic and socially responsible generation.

Lectures will be conducted by resource persons on important life topics, including maintaining mental clarity and keeping one’s inner thoughts clean. The diet offered to participants will include simple foods like porridge, khichdi and pulses, promoting healthy living. Unlike other summer camps that focus on arts, dance, or music, this one prioritises character-building activities.

So far, 100 applications have been received, and organisers expect a total of 200 participants. Each student will pay a fee of Rs 500. The camp will conclude on June 7 at 5 pm.

Started in 2017, the camp has since become an annual event, attracting young boys from across the country. The Mahavidyalaya itself plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Sanskrit among the youth, drawing students from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.