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By:

Quaid Najmi

4 January 2025 at 3:26:24 pm

Goda-Narmada Jal Yatra flagged off

CM says state will be ‘drought-free’ Mumbai: In a soulful blend of faith, history and futuristic governance, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated his regime’s commitment to making the state ‘drought-free’, flagging off a grant ‘Goda to Narmada Jal Yatra-2026” on Saturday from the temple town of Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district. The water pilgrimage, as it is called - starts from the origins of Godavari, second longest river, till the banks of the Narmada, fifth longest river of...

Goda-Narmada Jal Yatra flagged off

CM says state will be ‘drought-free’ Mumbai: In a soulful blend of faith, history and futuristic governance, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated his regime’s commitment to making the state  ‘drought-free’, flagging off a grant ‘Goda to Narmada Jal Yatra-2026” on Saturday from the temple town of Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district.   The water pilgrimage, as it is called - starts from the origins of Godavari, second longest river, till the banks of the Narmada, fifth longest river of India, in Madhya Pradesh with a clarion call to kickstart water conservation and sustainable development efforts.   “We are working on a major river interlinking project to make Maharashtra drought-free. Development must move in step with preserving cultural and ecological heritage,” Fadnavis said.   Taking inspiration from the legendary Punyashlok Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, he called her visionary leadership, contributions to water conservation from wells and stepwells to river management systems, which remain relevant centuries later.   “Ahilyabai Holkar’s work reminds us that respecting rivers as living entities is essential for sustainable growth,” said Fadnavis, praising her vision and governance model, on her 300 birth anniversary celebrations and the International Year of Woman Farmer.   Harking to the great rulers of the state like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he said that Ahilyabai Holkar occupies a place among the greatest of sovereigns who took over the reins of the state administration at a very young age after the death of her husband Khanderao Holkar and her father-in-law Malharrao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar Dynasty of central India, with its capital Indore.   “After the Mughal invaders damaged temples of Trimbakeshwar, Somnath, Kashi Vishwanath of Rameshwar, she rebuilt them with courage and commitment. Simultaneously, her work in water conservation is important. Even today, the water storage structures built by her are in good condition, and we shall preserve them,” said Fadnavis.   Elaborating, he said that Ahilyabai Holksar created a separate stream of River Narmada in Maheshwar for daily use so that the main river could flow clean and unpolluted. She considered rivers as goddesses and mothers, and accorded importance to them including Godavari, Yamuna and others.   Dwelling on her social reforms, the CM said she prioritised women’s education and employment through initiatives like the ‘Maheshwari Sari’, established one of the earliest women’s military units, integrated tribal communities into the social mainstream and implemented stringent law-and-order.   The yatra was launched with senior ministers like Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Chhagan Bhujbal, and others witnessing ceremonial rituals of ‘Kanya Pujan’, the worship of the River Godavari.   Spiritual guru Parampujya Gurumauli Annasaheb More of Shri Swami Samarth Seva Kendra, Nashik presided over the event while Yuvraj Maharaj Yeshwant Holkar Bahadur of the Indore royal family and 16 th  descendent of Ahilyabai Holkar was also present on the occasion.   Water collected from 30 rivers in the state will be carried in ceremonial urns (Kalash) to Maheshwar, the historic capital of Ahilyabai Holkar, and another procession, flagged off by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde, is carrying the sacred soil from her birthplace, Chaundi.   The twin yatras shall converge at Shirdi on Sunday, where special cultural, spiritual, and awareness programmes engaging citizens are lined up. Over the next four days, the processions shall traverse through Nashik, Sangamner, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and end on April 29 at Maheshwar on the banks of River Narmada – a significant development in the run-up to next year’s Nashik Kumbh Mela.   The state’s push for river interlinking, he said, will play a critical role in addressing regional water disparities and securing long-term water availability.   The yatras will see participation of around 500, including Warkaris, youth groups, farmers and volunteers, while water conservation experts, NGOs, and local communities are contributing to make it a platform for awareness, dialogue, and grassroots action.   Abode of a Jyotirling Trimbakeshwar in Nashik is revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The unique feature of this Jyotirling is the Linga in the temple is three-faced embodying the Tridev - Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.   The River Godavari, often called the Dakshin Ganga, originates from the lush green hills surrounding this picturesque and famed pilgrimage town.

Lung health awareness should be prioritised

Ustad Zakir Hussain

Zakir Hussain Succumbs to Rare Lung Disease Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): A Wake-Up Call for Lung Health Awareness Renowned pulmonologist Dr. Abhijit Ahuja from Saifee Hospital underscores the importance of early diagnosis and public awareness.


Zakir Hussain’s untimely demise has highlighted the devastating impact of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a rare and chronic lung disease often overlooked due to its silent progression. This condition leads to irreversible thickening and scarring of the lung tissues (fibrosis), impairing the lungs’ ability to function. The exact cause of this life-threatening condition remains unknown, which is why it is termed “idiopathic.”


According to Dr. Abhijit Ahuja, a leading pulmonologist at Saifee Hospital, there is an urgent need for public education regarding IPF. “Many people are unaware of IPF, and its symptoms are often dismissed as minor or age-related. Tragically, most diagnoses occur at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. Early detection is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life,” stated Dr. Ahuja.


Recognizing the Symptoms of IPF

IPF begins with subtle symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose early. Patients and healthcare providers must be vigilant about the following signs:

• Persistent shortness of breath (dyspnea), especially during physical activity

• Chronic dry cough that does not improve over time

• Unexplained fatigue and general weakness

• Sudden, unintended weight loss


“Many patients with IPF misinterpret their symptoms as signs of aging or other common respiratory problems. Unfortunately, this leads to delayed diagnosis,” Dr. Ahuja explained. Diagnosis involves a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, high-resolution CT scans, and lung function tests to confirm the presence of fibrosis.


Treatment and Management Options

While there is no cure for IPF, recent advancements in medicine offer hope by slowing the disease’s progression and managing symptoms effectively. Treatments used at institutions like Saifee Hospital include:

1. Antifibrotic Drugs: Medications like pirfenidone and nintedanib significantly reduce the progression of scarring in the lungs.

2. Oxygen Therapy: Providing supplemental oxygen helps manage breathlessness and improves patients’ energy levels.

3. Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Structured programs of breathing exercises and physical training enhance lung capacity, stamina, and quality of life.

4. Lung Transplantation: For severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered a life-saving option.


Dr. Ahuja emphasized, “The combination of antifibrotic drugs, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation can slow disease progression and improve patients’ lives. However, the success of these treatments hinges on early detection.”


Prognosis and Early Detection

IPF is a rapidly progressing disease with a poor prognosis. The average life expectancy following diagnosis is 3 to 5 years. However, early diagnosis and timely intervention can extend survival and significantly enhance quality of life.


Dr. Ahuja added, “Regular health check-ups and vigilance about respiratory health are vital. Early intervention is the only way to ensure a better prognosis for IPF patients.”


A Call for Greater Awareness

The tragic passing of Zakir Hussain has underscored the importance of raising awareness about rare diseases like IPF. Many people remain unaware of IPF’s early symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and limited treatment options.


Dr. Ahuja stated, “Awareness campaigns should emphasize that persistent shortness of breath and a chronic cough should never be ignored. Early referral to pulmonologists and tests like CT scans are crucial for identifying this disease at its initial stages.”


Saifee Hospital is actively involved in spreading awareness about lung diseases, offering cutting-edge diagnostic tools, and providing comprehensive care for patients with IPF and other respiratory conditions.


Supporting IPF Patients and Families

IPF is not just physically debilitating—it also takes a severe mental and emotional toll on patients. Family members and caregivers play an integral role in helping patients cope with the challenges of daily life.


Dr. Ahuja added, “While medical care is critical, psychological support for patients and their families is equally important. Addressing the emotional and mental strain can significantly improve the overall well-being of those living with IPF.”


Zakir Hussain’s Passing: A Lesson for All

Zakir Hussain’s untimely demise is a somber reminder of the need to prioritize lung health. It urges individuals to seek medical attention for unexplained breathlessness or persistent coughing and emphasizes the importance of early intervention in preventing severe outcomes.


Dr. Abhijit Ahuja of Saifee Hospital concluded, “Every individual experiencing symptoms like breathlessness or an unrelenting dry cough should consult a pulmonologist promptly. Early diagnosis can make all the difference.”


Let us honor Zakir Hussain’s legacy by spreading awareness about IPF and supporting those battling this rare and life-altering condition.


(The author is a leading pulmonologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. Views personal.)

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