Grand Joint Celebration of World Toilet Day & World Children’s Day at Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan and the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance (GIWA), in collaboration with UNICEF India, Harijan Sevak Sangh, and Divine Shakti Foundation (DSF), organized a grand and heartwarming joint celebration of World Toilet Day and World Children’s Day. The enthusiastic participation of over 500 students, teachers, sanitation workers, ASHA and Anganwadi workers, community leaders, and partner organizations made the event special.

Realizing this year’s World Toilet Day theme, “Sanitation in a Changing World,” and the event’s focus, “Cleanliness & Nutrition — The Foundation of Our Healthy Future,” everyone conveyed the message of collective responsibility towards sanitation, nutrition, dignity, and children’s rights.

Children’s Activities

Children enthusiastically participated in activities, learning through rallies, creative poster-making, quizzes, skits, group pledges, and interactive WASH and nutrition models like the “Toilet Walk.” Dozens of schools in Rishikesh actively participated.

Wellness & Dignity Camp for Safai Mitras

A special wellness camp was organized for Safai Mitras, which included yoga, meditation, marma therapy, Ayurvedic massage, dental and health counseling. Each was presented with a dignity and hygiene kit as a token of respect.

Plenary Session & Blessings

Participants gathered and connected with inspirational messages and blessings.

Address by Pujya Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji DSF President and GIWA International Secretary, Pujya Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji said:  “Cleanliness is not just an external act; it is an expression of compassion and values. Providing children with cleanliness, nutrition, and dignity is the foundation of a healthy and strong India. Our sanitation workers are the true heroes of society—respecting and empowering them is our moral duty.”

She also emphasized that proper nutrition is essential along with good hygiene—junk food undermines children’s health.

Tribute to Padma Shri Saalumarada Thimmakka

Program Director Ganga Nandiniji paid tribute to Padma Shri Thimmakka, the ‘Tree Lady of India,’ and shared the message of learning from her inspiring life of tree planting.

Conclusion

The program concluded with a collective pledge, felicitation ceremony, and balanced diets themed #MeriThaliSehatwali. Students organized a cleanliness rally throughout the ashram to spread the message of awareness.

Many dedicated members, volunteers, acharyas and child Rishikumars made significant contributions in making this divine event a success—heartfelt gratitude to them.