At the age of 36, Joshil Kumar from the village of Waibuka in Ba has charted an incredible journey marked by resilience and a deep sense of spirituality while now residing in Cranbourne, Melbourne. His love for travel has been a consistent force in his life, driving him to explore new places and connect with diverse cultures.
Kumar’s adventure has not been smooth; he faced profound personal loss when his father passed away when he was just 13, leaving his single mother and grandparents to nurture him. His family’s relocation to Australia and New Zealand has profoundly shaped his journey, yet his heart remained anchored in his cultural roots.
The year 2023 was particularly special for Kumar as he made his first trip to India, an essential milestone as he proudly declared, “I am the first one out of my four generations” to visit the homeland. During this trip, he undertook a trek to Kedarnath, completing the revered “chota char dham,” which sparked a newfound spiritual curiosity in him.
This year, Kumar’s spiritual quest took him to the Maha Kumbh, a significant pilgrimage he shared with his mother, describing the experience as invaluable. An unexpected highlight of his journey was his decision to embark on the Kailash Yatra, which he felt was a spiritual calling. He shared, “It was like a call from Lord Mahadev,” emphasizing how everything seamlessly fell into place.
Kumar’s pilgrimage around Mount Kailash, known as the sacred parikrama, stands as a transformative accomplishment, marking him as the first Fijian to enter Lhasa, Tibet. His journey was historically significant as authorities confirmed that his was the first Fiji passport to be honored there.
Despite facing daunting physical challenges due to high altitude and limited oxygen, Kumar attributes his success to divine support from Lord Shiva. He shares, “My dream is to complete my major Chaar Dhaam of India and visit the 12 Jyotirlingas and other significant sites mentioned in our holy scriptures,” showcasing his hope and determination for the future.
Kumar’s experiences echo a powerful message about faith and perseverance: “What I’ve seen and experienced on my journeys to Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, and Tibet… all are referenced in our holy books. So, believe in your religion and follow the values of life.” His inspiring story highlights the profound connection between adventurous exploration and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, serving as a beacon of hope for many.