The holy month of Sawan began with great devotion on Friday (July 11), as devotees across India gathered at temples and ghats to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. From early morning hours, large crowds were seen performing rituals in cities like Varanasi, Prayagraj, Kanpur, Delhi and Gorakhpur. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also joined the religious observance by offering prayers at the Gorakhnath Temple.
In Prayagraj, the spiritual energy was evident at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where devotees gathered at dawn to collect sacred Ganga water.
The Kanwar Yatra, a major pilgrimage undertaken during Sawan, also commenced today from ancient Shiva temples after Purnima. With saffron-clad pilgrims ready to journey to shrines like Kashi Vishwanath, the Uttar Pradesh government has ensured elaborate arrangements for a smooth and safe yatra.
CM Yogi Adityanath Performs Puja
Adding a significant moment to the day, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath performed traditional puja and rituals at the Gorakhnath Temple. The Chief Minister was seen extending prayers and doing rudrabhishek for peace and prosperity in the state and the nation.
In Delhi, visuals from the Prachin Shri Bhairav Mandir in Kalkaji showed devotees lighting lamps and immersing themselves in the spiritual essence of the season.
In Varanasi, the ancient city echoed with bhajans as a large number of worshippers thronged the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, seeking divine blessings.
Meanwhile, Kanpur’s Anandeshwar Mahadev Mandir witnessed an overwhelming footfall of devotees on Sawan’s first day. Chanting “Har Har Mahadev,” people offered bel leaves, milk, and prayers to the revered deity.
Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari marked the auspicious start of Sawan today, performing sacred rituals and offering prayers at the revered Raj Rajeshwar Mandir in Jaipur City Palace.
The holy month of Sawan, which began today, 11th July, is set to conclude on 9th August 2025.