The month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, is a sacred period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil. During this time, devotees embark on spiritual journeys to various sacred sites, and one such revered pilgrimage is the Kawan Yatra--also known as Kanwar Yatra. Let's dive into the essence of this journey in Sawan and explore its significance.

What is Kawan Yatra?

It is a lesser-known yet spiritually enriching pilgrimage. The yatra (journey) involves traveling to the Kawan village in the state of Bihar and other Lord Shiva's temples like in Haridwar, Varanasi, Gola Gokrannath and others.

Devotees, known as Kanwariyas, undertake this journey to seek blessings, spiritual growth, and to connect with the divine.

Kanwariya carrying his mother who cannot walk

While Kanwar Yatra is a seasonal festival starting this year from 11th July to 9th August, 2025, most Kanwariyas offer holy water of Ganga on Mondays as that day is supposed to be the day of Lord Shiva.

Significance:

The month of Sawan is considered auspicious for worshiping Lord Shiva, and Kawan Yatra becomes a perfect opportunity for devotees to deepen their spiritual connection. The monsoon season adds to the charm, as the lush green landscapes and the soothing rains create a serene atmosphere, conducive to meditation and self-reflection.

Kanwar Yatra was first started by the saint of pilgrim city Haridwar in the late 1980s and later followed by others. Now it is one of the most popular festivals as per record approximately 30 million people were part of this Yatra in 2024 and is expected to participate over 40 million people in 2025.

Kanwariyas group

Rituals and Practices:

During the pilgrimage devotees perform various rituals and practices, such as:

• Travel barefoot after fetching water from River Ganga. Kanwariyas carry the fetched water from Ganga to the shiv temple barefoot and by walking 300 to 400 kms.

• Offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Kartikeya

• Devotees offer River Ganges water with thornapple, Aegle leaves, sweets, and/or flowers.

• Performing Rudrabhishek, a sacred ritual involving the chanting of mantras and offering of holy water to Lord Shiva.

• Participating in spiritual discourses and kirtans(devotional singing).

• Engaging in meditation and yoga practices to connect with the inner self.

                           Shivring                                                                    Shivring with flowers

Tips for Undertaking Kawan Yatra:

If you're planning to embark on the Kawan Yatra, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Plan ahead: Research the route, accommodations, and weather conditions to ensure a smooth journey.

• Pack accordingly: Bring comfortable clothing, rain gear, and essentials like water, snacks, and first-aid kits.

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering temples, and follow local traditions.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid exhaustion.

Conclusion:

The Kawan Yatra in Sawan is a unique spiritual experience that combines devotion, self-reflection, and connection with nature. As you embark on this journey, remember to stay open to new experiences, and let the divine guide you on your path. Whether you're a seasoned pilgrim or a curious traveler, the Kawan Yatra is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Get Ready to Embark on This Spiritual Journey.

Article by Archit Verma, tourist guide from Uttar Pradesh. Insta: @its__archit_07

Photos from https://commons.wikimedia.org

Giant statue of Lord Shiva

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