The Kanwar Yatra, a vibrant pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, concluded on Wednesday with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bhole” echoing across Haridwar. Over 4.5 crore devotees visited the city in just 15 days to collect sacred Ganga water for ‘jalabhishek’ at Shiva temples, marking a record-breaking turnout, according to Mela Control Room sources.

The Dakshaprajapati Mahadev temple in Kankhal, believed to be Lord Shiva’s residence during Shravan due to a mythological promise to his father-in-law King Daksha, saw massive crowds. Other prominent Shivalayas, including Daridra Bhanjan, Tilbhandeshwar, Bilveshwar, Neeleshwar, and Gaurishankar temples, were also thronged by saffron-clad pilgrims.

Haridwar District Magistrate Mayur Dixit and SSP Pramod Dobal joined devotees, performing Ganga puja at Har Ki Pauri and offering ‘jalabhishek’ at Daksha temple, thanking Lord Shiva for the smooth execution of the Kanwar Mela. The event, one of India’s largest religious gatherings, saw robust arrangements, including drone surveillance and traffic management, ensuring a safe spiritual journey for millions.

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