At 36, Joshil Kumar, originally from the village of Waibuka in Ba, has forged an extraordinary path characterized by resilience and a profound connection to spirituality. Now residing in Cranbourne, Melbourne, Kumar’s passion for travel has been a constant throughout his life.
Kumar reflects, “I love travelling, trekking, exploring new places and meeting people.” However, his journey has not been without hardships. He experienced significant loss early in life when his father passed away when Kumar was just 13 years old. Raised by a single mother with support from his grandparents, Kumar’s family has since migrated to Australia and New Zealand.
In a highlight of his travels, 2023 marked his first visit to India, a monumental occasion as he declares, “I am the first one out of my four generations” to make the trip. During this visit, he embarked on a trek to Kedarnath, completing the “chota char dham,” and igniting a spiritual curiosity that he had not previously recognized.
This year, his explorations took an even more profound direction when he felt compelled to visit the Maha Kumbh, a decisive spiritual pilgrimage he undertook with his mother, describing it as an invaluable experience. The pinnacle of his spiritual journey came with an unexpected decision to undertake the Kailash Yatra. “It was like a call from Lord Mahadev,” he explains, noting how everything fell into place effortlessly.
Kumar accomplished the sacred parikrama (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash, which he regards as a life-changing achievement. His journey continued to be historic as he became the first Fijian to enter Lhasa, Tibet, with authorities acknowledging that his was the first Fiji passport to do so.
The physical challenges of high altitude tested his limits, particularly in terms of oxygen availability. Yet, he credits the divine guidance of Lord Shiva for his success in overcoming these hardships. “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,” he expresses with hope and determination.
Kumar’s message resonates with many: “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 story serves as a reminder of the connection between faith, adventure, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.