Sawan (or Shravan) is the most auspicious month in the Hindu calendar, especially for the devotees of Lord Shiva. Each year, during the month of Sawan, lakhs of devotees of Lord Shiva embark on their very own Kanwar Yatra, a special religious pilgrimage.
These ardent devotees, known as Kanwariyas, travel on foot, otherwise referred to as an Ashte Yatra, while chanting the slogans of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bhole,” often for miles on end and barefoot. The Kanwariyas also carry the holy water they collect from the rivers on the decorated bamboo pole with two containers or pots. This is known as Kanwar.
The sacred water is collected from, among other places, Haridwar, Gangotri, Gaumukh and other rivers throughout multiple states across the religious landscape of northern India. Once the Kanwariyas arrive, they take the water from their Kanwar and offer the water on the Shivling as part of the ritual of Jalabhishek.
Kanwar Yatra is not merely just a ritual to the devotee. The Kanwar Yatra is a tribute of faith to Lord Shiva and a way of expressing their gratitude and requesting his blessings. There are many stories on the origin of this tradition. According to mythological stories, Lord Parshuram was the first Kanwariya. An ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, he brought the water of Ganga to pour in the Shivling. That was the starting of this tradition, which has continued as a sambhavana and spiritual austerity since.
In Hinduism, Kanwar yatra is spiritually very significant. It is said that Kanwariyas who make the yatra with bhakti can atone for their sins and gain peace, prosperity, and happiness in their lives. Lord Shiva is also said to grant their wishes.
During the yatra, devotees are celibate, fast, and walk under adverse conditions for a long distance. Some ancient texts have written that even performing the kanwar yatra is equivalent to performing the Ashwamedha Yagna, and that they will receive the same virtue for the kanwar yatra.
Kanwar Yatra 2025: Dates
According to the Hindu calendar, the month of Sawan will be from July 11 through August 9. Sawan Shivratri will be celebrated on July 23. Chaturdashi tithi begins at 4:39 am and ends at 2:28 am on July 24. Devotees will perform Jalabhishek on July 23, as it is the most auspicious day of the month.
Also Read: Authentic Pune-Style Puran Poli Recipe: A Sweet Tradition Served On Your Plate
