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Kanwar Yatra 2024: Every year, devotees of Lord Shiva eagerly anticipate the month of Sawan (Shravan Maas), when they embark on the revered Kanwar Yatra (Kawad Yatra) pilgrimage. During this sacred journey, devotees clad in saffron carry ornate bamboo poles, known as Kanwars, bearing water pitchers filled with holy Ganges water. Their destination is their local temple, where they will perform the sacred ritual of Abhishekam, anointing the Shivling with the holy water they've carried, as an act of devotion and worship to Lord Shiva. This year, the Kanwar Yatra began on 22nd July 2024.

Kanwar Yatra 2024: End Date

This year, Kanwar Yatra will end on 2nd August on the occasion of Sawan Shivratri.

Kanwar Yatra 2024: Rules To Follow During Kawad Yatra

The Kawad Yatra is a rigorous and disciplined spiritual undertaking, not to be taken lightly. Devotees, known as Kanwariyas, must adhere to a strict set of rules and guidelines, making a solemn vow to follow these regulations throughout their journey. Let's delve deeper into the specific rules and protocols that govern this sacred pilgrimage:

- During the sacred Kanwar Yatra pilgrimage, devotees are expected to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet, abstaining from all impure substances. This means refraining from the consumption of intoxicants, alcohol, meat, onion, garlic and any non-vegetarian food, which are considered forbidden during this period. By following this dietary restriction, devotees aim to maintain spiritual purity and devotion throughout their journey.

- Devotees must purify themselves by taking a bath before handling the sacred Kanwar, ensuring a clean and sanctified touch.

- During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees are expected to renounce worldly comforts and desires, embracing a life of simplicity and austerity as they focus on their spiritual journey.

- Kanwariyas are required to forgo comfort and luxury, sleeping and resting only on the floor or on a mat, as they eschew soft beds and cots during the duration of the pilgrimage.

- During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees are expected to avoid using or coming into contact with any items made from leather, as a sign of spiritual discipline and detachment from material comforts.

Kanwariyas visit Haridwar to fetch Ganga Jal and perform the abhishek of Lord Shiva during the auspicious month of Sawan. (Image Source: ANI)

- Devotees must handle the Kanwar with reverence, ensuring it is never placed directly on the ground or under a tree's shade. Additionally, it should not be carried overhead. Instead, the Kanwar should be suspended from a branch at all times. If it accidentally comes into contact with the ground, the sacred water must be refilled as a sign of renewal and respect.

- The Kanwar is sacred and exclusively reserved for the holy water from the Ganges River, prohibiting the storage of any other water or substance within it, to maintain its spiritual purity and significance.

ALSO READ: Kanwar Yatra 2024: Significance And Benefits Of This Divine Yatra During Sawan To Please Lord Shiva

- Throughout the Kanwar Yatra, Kanwariyas are expected to stay together as a collective group, fostering a sense of community and unity. Additionally, they should continuously chant sacred mantras, such as "Bam Bam Bhole" or "Jai Jai Shiv Shankar", to maintain a state of spiritual focus and devotion throughout their journey.

 


(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)