Kanwar Yatra 2025 — Know The Significance Of Carrying Kanwar On The Shoulder

During Kanwar yatra, devotees carry the holy water of Ganga in a kanwar, place on their shoulders, and offer it to Shiv, know the legend behind this ritual of carrying kanwar on the shoulder.

Kanwar Yatra 2025

Source : PTI

Sawan 2025: The sacred month of Sawan began on July 11, 2025. With the arrival of this holy period, the devotion towards Lord Shiv surges across the country, making Shiv worship especially significant during this time. One of the most prominent religious activities observed during Sawan is the Kanwar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage of faith and endurance.

During this spiritual journey, known as the Kanwar Yatra, devotees of Lord Shiv — called Kanwariyas — travel from far and wide to collect holy water from sacred rivers, most notably the Ganga. This water is then carried in a kanwar — a wooden or metal yoke — placed on their shoulders, and offered to Shiv at various temples, symbolizing their devotion and penance.

Religious Significance Of Carrying Kanwar On The Shoulder:

The Kanwar Yatra is more than just a journey; it represents unwavering devotion, deep faith, and selfless surrender to Lord Shiv. Devotees bear the physical strain of walking long distances with the kanwar on their shoulders, avoiding letting it touch the ground at any point — a practice seen as a form of religious penance or tapasya. With chants of “Bam Bam Bhole” echoing in the air, devotees walk toward their chosen Shiv temples to offer the sacred water on the Shivlinga, marking the completion of their spiritual endeavor.

There are several religious and mythological stories associated with the origin of the Kanwar Yatra. One popular belief is that the tradition was initiated by Lord Parshuram. Another widely accepted legend connects the Yatra to the demon king Ravan, a devout follower of Lord Shiv.

According to Hindu mythology, Ravan once attempted to lift Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiv, which angered the deity. Realising his mistake, Ravan sought forgiveness and decided to please Lord Shiv by performing Abhishek (ritual bathing) with the holy water of the Ganga. It is believed that Ravan was the first to bring Ganga water using a kanwar, carrying it on his shoulder to offer it to Lord Shiv.

To this day, Shiv devotees continue to follow this age-old tradition. Carrying the kanwar on the shoulder is seen as a mark of respect, faith, and a symbolic act of devotion toward Lord Shiv — a gesture meant to attain his blessings and spiritual merit during the auspicious month of Sawan.

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