Shivraj Khachar is inspiring social change in the digital era

We live in an age of technology, automation, and artificial intelligence. The immersion of tech is so widespread that it has become synonymous with our culture and lifestyle. The more we occupy ourselves with the pace of the world, the farther we find ourselves from our roots and our heritage. 

As Indians, we are fortunate to be born into the legacy of a 4000-year-old robust, diverse, and abundant culture. Unfortunately, we find ourselves not embracing or celebrating this culture as our previous generations have.

Haldi (curcumin) milk for fever has been replaced by ibuprofen, Multani mitti (Fuller's earth). It has been replaced by synthetic skincare products, and genetically modified crops have replaced organic produce. The pace of commercialization and adulteration is alarming. Did you know that you can grow the majority of your food, health, and skincare products in your backyard? 

Fortunately, some have not forgotten this legacy. There are people actively working towards promoting and protecting the cultural legacy and ayurvedic heritage in India. One such inspired individual hails from the Royal family of the former princely state of Jasdan. Shivraj Khachar is the son of the present chief of Jasdan state, an advocate for Cow-protection, a conservationist and wildlife enthusiast. In his campaign to protect cows and promote cow-products, he has employed social media and digital platforms as his instruments for awareness and action. 

An advocate of the cow-protection movement, he has founded the GoMataSeva.org platform, an eCommerce site to promote Herbal Panchagavya (CowPathy) based natural ayurvedic products. 

The website offers an assortment of wellness, beauty, health, and skincare products. These products are ethically sourced from the pure breed Gir cows maintained at the Goshala (Cowshed) in Jasdan. Apart from producing Panchagavya products, Shivraj and his team are also working enthusiastically in creating awareness of social, economical and cultural benefits brought about by maintaining the cows in households and Gaushalas. 

Shivraj remarks about his use of social media to inspire change, " So many brands are engaging influencers to promote their products on digital media. It inspired me to harness my own social media presence to promote our efforts at Gomataseva. The response and support from my friends and followers have been overwhelming and encouraging. "

• Shivraj Khachar