Why the Kanwar Yatra is important in Shravan month?
The Kanwar Yatra, observed mainly in the month of Shravan (July–August), is one of the most significant religious pilgrimages for Lord Shiva devotees. Every year, millions of Kanwariyas (devotees) undertake this holy journey to fetch sacred water from the Ganges and offer it to Lord Shiva, especially at Jyotirlingas. But why the Kanwar yatra so important during the Shravan month? Let’s understand step by step.
What is Kanwar Yatra?
The Kanwar Yatra is a traditional pilgrimage undertaken by Lord Shiva’s devotees (mostly barefoot), who carry decorated pots (Kanwars) filled with holy Ganga water from Haridwar, Gaumukh, or Gangotri. They walk long distances to pour this sacred water over Shiva Lingas at specific temples in their region.
Why It Is Performed in the Month of Shravan
The Shravan month is considered the most auspicious time to worship Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology:
The Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) happened in this month.
During the churning, poison (halahala) emerged, and Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe.
To reduce the effect of the poison, Ganga water was poured over him to cool his body.
Hence, devotees recreate this act of devotion by offering Ganga Jal to Shiva during Shravan, symbolizing their gratitude and faith.
Spiritual Significance of the Kanwar Yatra
It is a form of Tapasya (penance) and devotion.
The journey tests the physical endurance and mental strength of the devotees.
The act of offering Ganga water is considered to wash away sins and bring blessings from Lord Shiva.
Social and Cultural Importance
The Yatra promotes unity and brotherhood among people.
Entire villages and towns support Kanwariyas by offering food, shelter, and medical aid.
It showcases India’s vibrant spiritual culture, devotion, and deep-rooted traditions.
Rituals Followed by Devotees
Wearing saffron-colored clothes.
Observing fasts and abstaining from meat, alcohol, and negative behavior.
Chanting “Bol Bam” or “Har Har Mahadev” during the journey.
Avoiding placing the Kanwar on the ground (Kanwar is considered sacred).
Famous Destinations for Kanwar Yatra
Some popular places where devotees go to offer Ganga water:
Baidyanath Dham– Jharkhand
Kashi Vishwanath– Varanasi
Neelkanth Mahadev– Rishikesh
Haridwar & Gangotri– Uttarakhand
Blessings of Participating in Kanwar Yatra
It brings peace, prosperity, and good health.
Believers say it helps to fulfill wishes and attain spiritual growth.
It is considered a path to Moksha (liberation) for many devotees.
The Kanwar Yatra is not just a journey but a spiritual mission filled with faith, dedication, and discipline. Performed in the holiest month of Shravan, it connects millions of hearts with divine energy. For Lord Shiva’s devotees, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience of devotion and purity.
