Kanwar Yatra 2025: When Does It Begin? Date, Significance & Rituals

The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage that is observed by millions of devotees of Lord Shiva. Devotees who take part in this auspicious yatra are known as Kanwariyas. This revered month is observed during the Hindu month of Shravan (July-August). Sawan, also known as Shravan, is a holy month in the Hindu calendar.

Sawan holds deep historical and religious importance in Hinduism. The month of Sawan is considered one of the most auspicious periods, especially for the devotees of Lord Shiva. One of the important days during this pure month is Monday, called the Sawan Somwar. Here's everything you need to know about this auspicious month and the Kanwar Yatra.

About Kanwar Yatra

Kanwar Yatra is a way for devotees to express their devotion to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. During the month of Sawan, Kanwariyas travel to specific locations on the Ganges to collect its holy water. The holy water is carried in decorated bamboo structures called Kanwars, which are balanced on the shoulders.

Most of the Kanwariyas undertake the journey barefoot, which symbolises their commitment, faith, and devotion to Lord Shiva. After collecting, the water is then offered at numerous Shiva temples. The revered yatra is not just a physical journey but also a spiritual one, involving fasting, celibacy, and other forms of austerity.

Pilgrims, especially from North India, travel to places like Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand, Prayagraj and Sultanganj in Bihar to collect holy water from the Ganges River.

Date and rituals of Kanwar Yatra

This year, the yatra will commence on July 11 and it will end on August 9. This yatra is seen as an excellent opportunity to bond with Lord Shiva and completely dedicate oneself to Him. The atmosphere of the yatra is such that one feels attracted to the spiritual bond. During this yatra, devotees should avoid intoxicating substances like alcohol, tobacco, and meat. Kanwariyas should never keep the sacred Ganga water on the ground as it is considered inauspicious.

The story behind Sawan

According to legends, during the Samudra Manthan (the cosmic churning), a powerful poison called Halahala emerged along with other divine items. Neither the gods nor the demons want to consume the poison. Lord Shiva knew that the poison was capable of destroying the universe. To protect the universe from Halahala, Lord Shiva consumed the poison.

Then, Goddess Parvati held his neck to prevent poison from spreading. The Goddess managed to stop the poison from spreading, but the poison caused a burning sensation in Lord Shiva's throat, turning it blue, and that is why Lord Shiva is also known as Neelkanth. The month of Swan is dedicated to Lord Shiva in remembrance of this event. On this day, Devotees offer water (Jal) to Lord Shiva, observe fasts, and offer prayers.