Gaushalas - cow shelters
Gaushalas: An Integral Part of Hindu Culture
Gaushalas, or cow shelters, have always been an essential part of the traditional Hindu way of life. In ancient times, every household kept cows, considering them as a “Mother” figure due to their nurturing role. However, in modern times, especially in cities, it has become challenging for people to maintain cows at home.
Understanding this need, Hariom Ashram has taken up the noble responsibility of providing shelter to as many stray and abandoned cows as possible. All resources gathered by the ashram are devoted to the welfare of these helpless animals, often abandoned by dairy owners or farmers.
Benefits of Cow Shelters
Preserving Hindu Culture 💚: Cows are integral to Vedic traditions and rituals.
Valuable By-Products:💚 Cow dung and urine remain useful throughout a cow’s life for organic farming and medicinal purposes.
Reducing Road Accidents💚: Sheltering stray cows prevents accidents on roads.
Cleaner Streets💚: Reduces cattle wandering and littering on streets.
Social Harmony💚: Provides a place for people to visit, worship, and bond as a community.
Rituals and Worship💚: Many traditional ceremonies and pujas are conducted in gaushalas.
Gaushalas Managed by Hariom Ashram
- Hariom Ashram Gaushala📌 – Kadwapani, Karbari Grant, Shimla Bypass Road, Dehradun.
- Hariom Ashram Gaushala 📌– Chidibhelli, Timli, Vikasnagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
- Hariom Ashram Gaushala 📌– Near Dakpather Barrage, Khodri Majri, Himachal Pradesh.
Management of Gaushalas
1. Infrastructure:
Adequate buildings provide shelter for cows and staff. The ashram’s three gaushalas can accommodate around 2,000 cows and 50 staff members.
2. Fodder Management:
Fresh green fodder is sourced directly from local farms. Before serving, the grass is cut and mixed with dry husk to make it nutritious and tasty for the cows. Essential supplements like wheat, pulses, jaggery, and salt are also included for a balanced diet.
3. Basic Facilities:
Reliable electricity and clean water are provided to ensure a comfortable environment.
4. Dedicated Staff:
A hardworking team handles various tasks such as feeding cows, cutting and mixing fodder, cleaning cow dung, and maintaining cleanliness.
5. Medical Services:
On-site medical care is provided for sick and injured cows, including those rescued from accidents. A veterinary team ensures timely treatment and proper health care.
6. Disposal of Deceased Cows:
The gaushala follows respectful and hygienic methods for the disposal of deceased cows.
Hariom Ashram’s gaushalas are not just shelters but places where compassion, tradition, and care for animals come together. They play a vital role in preserving culture, ensuring animal welfare, and fostering social harmony.
