By Ashok Kumar Nirbhay
New Delhi: A team of five Indian mothers created history by successfully crossing the Palk Strait in a relay swim from Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi, India, spreading a powerful message against drug abuse. The challenging expedition was completed in 10 hours and 10 minutes and is being recognized as the world’s first all-women relay swim across the route with a social awareness mission.
The campaign was organized to promote the message “Say No to Drugs.” Conducted on the occasion of Mother’s Day, the initiative highlighted the important role of mothers not only within families but also in creating social awareness and inspiring positive change. Through this mission, the swimmers encouraged young people to stay away from drugs and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Among the participants was Aarti F. Bhardwaj, a physical education teacher from Amity International School, Gurugram, who represented North India in the expedition. She said the team underwent several months of rigorous physical training and mental preparation before attempting the challenging swim. Strong sea currents, changing weather conditions, and the long distance made the journey extremely difficult, but the determination and teamwork of the participants ensured success.
The other members of the team were from Vijayawada in South India, while one participant belonged to Maharashtra. Following the relay format, each swimmer took turns in the sea, contributing equally to the successful completion of the mission. Their coordination and team spirit became the biggest strength behind the achievement.
Extensive safety arrangements were made during the expedition. Expert supervisors and support staff closely monitored the swimmers throughout the journey to ensure their safety amid rough sea conditions and natural challenges.
Speaking about the achievement, Aarti Bhardwaj said the mission was not just about creating a record but about bringing social change. She emphasized that drug addiction has become a serious issue among today’s youth and that society must come together to fight the problem. She added that the campaign aimed to show that women can overcome any challenge and become catalysts for positive transformation in society.
The historic achievement has emerged as a symbol of women’s strength, unity, and determination. Beyond being a milestone in sports, the campaign has also become an inspiring social awareness movement. The initiative on Mother’s Day reinforced the message that mothers are not only the foundation of families but also a powerful force capable of shaping society for the better.
