Kanwar Yatra Begins In Haridwar As Devotees Gather For Shravan Festivities

Thousands of devotees participated in the annual Kanwar Yatra in Haridwar on Thursday as the holy month of Shravan began, carrying sacred water from the Ganga River as part of the traditional pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva. The devotees, known as Kanwariyas, collected holy water from the river before beginning their journeys towards their respective destinations. The Kanwar Yatra is one of the most significant religious pilgrimages associated with the worship of Lord Shiva. During the yatra, devotees travel on foot to collect Ganga water, which is later offered at Shiva temples in their hometowns and villages.

The pilgrimage takes place every year during the auspicious month of Shravan, which is considered highly sacred among devotees of Mahadev. Haridwar witnessed a large gathering of pilgrims on the opening day of Shravan, with devotees seen carrying decorated Kanwars filled with holy water. Many participants travelled long distances while observing religious practices, chanting prayers and singing devotional songs in honour of Lord Shiva. The annual pilgrimage attracts devotees from several parts of the country, with Haridwar serving as one of the most important destinations due to its spiritual connection with the Ganga.

Authorities typically make extensive arrangements during the yatra to manage crowds, ensure security and provide facilities for pilgrims. Yoga guru Ramdev described the month of Shravan as an extremely sacred period dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and urged Kanwar Yatris to maintain the dignity and spiritual essence of the pilgrimage. He appealed to devotees to follow discipline and focus on devotion during the yatra. "The month of Shravan is extremely sacred — a time dedicated to worshipping Mahadev," Ramdev said.

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He also advised pilgrims to avoid activities that could affect the sanctity of the religious journey. Ramdev urged Kanwariyas to refrain from consuming intoxicants and engaging in disruptive behaviour during the pilgrimage. He said such actions were against the values associated with the worship of Lord Shiva and could negatively impact the image of the religious tradition. "Engaging in intoxication or creating disturbances tarnishes the dignity of our Sanatan Dharma. Therefore, I urge all Kanwariyas to immerse themselves in devotion to Shiva," he said. The Kanwar Yatra is observed across several states, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Bihar.

During the pilgrimage, devotees often walk hundreds of kilometres carrying decorated structures known as Kanwars on their shoulders while following religious vows and customs. Authorities in Haridwar and other pilgrimage centres have prepared for the annual movement of devotees by strengthening security arrangements, managing traffic and setting up facilities for pilgrims. Officials have also appealed to devotees to maintain cleanliness, follow safety guidelines and cooperate with administration personnel. As the holy month of Shravan progresses, more devotees are expected to participate in religious activities and visit Shiva temples across the country. The Kanwar Yatra continues to remain a major expression of faith, devotion and cultural tradition for millions of Lord Shiva devotees.

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