Sawan Kanwar Yatra 2025 start and end date: All you need to know toughest pilgrimages
Sawan Kanwar Yatra 2025: The month of Sawan (Shravan) holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is a time devoted to prayer, worship, and various religious observances in honour of Shiva. One of the most awaited events during this month is the Kanwar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by Shiva's devotees, which witnesses massive participation across the country.
What is the Kanwar Yatra?
During the Kanwar Yatra, pilgrims called Kanwariyas chant slogans like 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Bam Bam Bole' as they walk barefoot to various Shiva temples. Kavadiayas collect holy Ganga water from sacred places like Haridwar and Gangotri, and then perform the Jalabhishek (water offering) of the Shivling with it.
As per mythological beliefs, the first ever Kanwar Yatra was undertaken by Lord Parshuram, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. Since then, offering water to Shiva during this yatra has become a profound symbol of faith, devotion, and dedication.
In another story its believed, that Ravana, a devout follower of Lord Shiva, is considered the first Kanwariya. During a crisis caused by the churning of the ocean and the emergence of poison, Ravana brought Ganga water in his kanwar and used it to anoint the Shivlinga, helping Lord Shiva neutralize the poison.
When Will Kanwar Yatra Begin in 2025?
The Kanwar Yatra is a major annual religious event in Hinduism, observed during the auspicious month of Sawan. In 2025, Sawan will begin on 11 July and end on 9 August. As per tradition, the Kanwar Yatra will commence from 11 July 2025 and continue for 30 days, drawing lakhs of devotees from various parts of India.
Important Rules to Follow During the Kanwar Yatra
There are certain strict spiritual guidelines that devotees are expected to follow during the pilgrimage:
Pilgrims must maintain purity in thought, word, and deed.
All intoxicating substances such as alcohol, tobacco, cigarettes, paan, and gutkha must be completely avoided.
Once the yatra begins, the Kanwar (pot carrying Ganga water) must never be placed on the ground. Doing so is considered inauspicious and invalidates the journey.
In case the Kanwar is accidentally placed on the ground, fresh water must be fetched and the yatra restarted.
After relieving oneself, pilgrims must bathe before touching the Kanwar again.
Devotees must avoid touching any leather products during the pilgrimage.
What Do Kanwariyas Do During the Yatra?
The Kanwar Yatra is a devotional journey dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees, known as Kanwariyas, begin their on-foot pilgrimage from holy cities such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Gaumukh, and Sultanganj, collecting sacred river water. They then walk for miles to their local Shiva temples or shrines, where they perform the ritualistic Abhishek of the Shivling using the collected water.
FAQs:
Q. Who was the first to undertake the Kanwar Yatra?
A. It is believed that Lord Parshuram, a great devotee of Lord Shiva, was the first to fetch Ganga water from Haridwar and offer it to Shiva at Puramahadev. This act is recognised as the first Kanwar Yatra.
Q. Do devotees fast during the yatra?
A. No, strict fasting like nirjala (without water) or fruit-only fasts is not mandatory. However, pilgrims are expected to abstain from non-vegetarian food and alcohol, consuming only pure vegetarian meals.
Q. Does the Kanwar Yatra fulfil wishes?
A. As per religious belief, Lord Shiva blesses his devotees and fulfils their wishes if the yatra is performed with sincerity and devotion.
Q. Is the Kanwar Yatra difficult?
A. Yes, the Kanwar Yatra is considered one of the toughest pilgrimages. Devotees walk barefoot for days, enduring harsh sun, rain, and exhaustion.
(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)
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