- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:23 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
All About Kanwar Yatra: The holy month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this time, a special pilgrimage journey known as the Kanwar Yatra occurs in which lakhs of devotees from various parts of India participate. This ancient tradition involves millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas, travelling barefoot to collect holy water from the Ganga River and other sacred rivers. They bring the water to Shiva temples in their hometowns in specially made containers known as "Kanwars." The yatra celebrates the story of Samudra Manthan, in which the gods showered Lord Shiva with holy Ganga water to soothe his pain after he consumed poison to save the world.
The Kanwar Yatra conveys many spiritual teachings, emphasising devotion, humility and community cooperation. By undertaking this pilgrimage, devotees seek divine blessings, purification of the soul and spiritual growth. The yatra's significance extends beyond religious rituals, highlighting the importance of discipline, unity and self-reflection. Let’s understand the history, rituals and spiritual meaning behind the Kanwar Yatra. In the year 2025, the Kanwar yatra starts from 11 July and will end on 23 July (Shivratri).
What Is Kanwar Yatra?
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All about Kanwar yatra (Image: ANI)
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual religious journey that is primarily undertaken by Kanwariyas, or followers of Lord Shiva, during the month of Shravan (Sawan) that falls in July and August. The devotees fetch Ganga Jal (holy water) from places like Haridwar, Gaumukh, Rishikesh or Sultanganj and carry it back in Kanwars decorated bamboo structures to pour it on Shivlings at popular temples. In Hindu culture, this journey is a powerful manifestation of faith, devotion and community. Kanwariyas demonstrate their respect for Lord Shiva by performing aarti, chanting hymns, praying, and enduring physical hardships.
History and Mythological Belief
The roots of the Kanwar Yatra are found in Hindu mythology. According to legends: during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the ocean), a deadly poison called Halahal emerged. To save the universe, Lord Shiva consumed the poison and held it in his throat, which turned blue. to reduce Shiva’s pain, devotees offered sacred Ganga water to cool him down. Thus, offering Ganga water in Sawan became a symbolic act of devotion and gratitude toward Lord Shiva.
Rituals Followed During Kanwar Yatra
During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees follow strict rituals, including bathing in holy rivers, offering prayers, and carrying sacred water in Kanwars. They travel barefoot, chant hymns, and perform aarti, showcasing their devotion and reverence for Lord Shiva's divine powers and blessings. Below are the key points that you must know about the Kanwar Yatra;
- Devotees wear saffron/orange clothes, symbolising purity and renunciation.
- They walk barefoot for miles, chanting “Bol Bam” or “Har Har Mahadev”.
- Kanwariyas do not place the Kanwar on the ground until the water is offered.
- The water is poured on the Shivling at temples like Baba Baidyanath (Deoghar), Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi), or Neelkanth Mahadev (Rishikesh).
- Many Kanwariyas observe strict fasting and celibacy during this period.
Spiritual Importance of Kanwar Yatra
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All about Kanwar yatra (Image: ANI)
The Kanwar Yatra holds immense spiritual importance as devotees seek Lord Shiva's blessings, purification and spiritual growth. Here are some spiritual facts about the Kanwar Yatra;
Symbol of devotion: Walking long distances shows the deep faith devotees have in Lord Shiva.
Self-purification: The yatra is considered a way to purify the soul through discipline, hardship, and prayer.
Unity in faith: It brings together people from different states, castes and backgrounds.
Reward of blessings: It is believed that Lord Shiva grants peace, good health and wish fulfilment to those who complete the Kanwar Yatra with true devotion.
Dos During Kanwar Yatra
During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees follow specific dos, including carrying Kanwars with reverence, travelling barefoot, chanting hymns, and offering prayers. Here are some key pointers to observe the yatra with devotion.
- Wear clean saffron clothes and maintain hygiene
- Keep positive thoughts and chant Shiva mantras
- Help fellow Kanwariyas and follow the spirit of unity
- Walk on the designated Kanwar routes
- Use a Kanwar stand to rest—never place it on the ground
- Respect local customs and temple rules
- Stay hydrated and eat satvik (pure) food if needed
- Be respectful and peaceful throughout the journey
Don’t during the Kanwar Yatra
During the Kanwar Yatra, devotees should avoid certain don'ts. Here are some key pointers: no consumption of intoxicants, maintaining cleanliness, avoiding harm to others, and refraining from worldly desires and distractions.
- Don’t place the Kanwar on the ground under any condition
- Avoid fighting or arguing—it is a journey of peace
- Don’t consume alcohol, meat, or tobacco during the yatra
- Avoid loud music, dance, or stunts that disturb others
- Don’t pollute the Ganga or the surroundings
- Don’t rush or push in temple lines
- Don’t insult any faith or other devotees
Famous Temples for Kanwar Water Offering
All about Kanwar yatra (Image: ANI)
Devotees offer Kanwar water to Lord Shiva either at their hometowns famous Shiva temple or renowned temples like Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Kedarnath in Uttarakhand,and Somnath in Gujarat. These sacred sites hold great significance, attracting millions of pilgrims annually to seek divine blessings. Here are some of the most sacred lord shiva temples that kanwariyas prefer to offer pray.
- Baba Baidyanath Dham – Deoghar, Jharkhand
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
- Kedarnath Temple – Uttarakhand
- Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple – Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
