Kanwar Yatra Is Linked To Lord Shiv — But Do You Know Its Connection With Lord Vishnu? Know Here

Know the spiritual origins of Kanwar Yatra 2025, linked to Lord Parshuram and Shravan Kumar.

Sawan Kanwar Yatra

Source : PTI

Sawan Kanwar Yatra 2025: As the holy month of Sawan starts after Ashadha Purnima comes to an end, a spiritual energy surges across India. The devotees of Lord Shiv, prepare for one of the most intense and visually spectacular pilgrimages of Hinduism — the Kanwar Yatra. More than just a religious journey, the Kanwar Yatra is a strong expression of faith, discipline, and devotion that define Sawan in spirit.

This sacred month, deeply revered in Sanatan Dharma, is considered to bestow auspiciousness upon worship of Lord Shiv. While many observe fasts and offer prayers, thousands of kanwariyas take their devotion a step further, embarking on a barefoot journey to collect holy Ganga water and offer it to Shiv in temples across the country. 

When Will The Kanwar Yatra Begin In 2025?

On July 11, 2025, the auspicious month of Sawan begins and ends on August 9, 2025. Therefore, the Kanwar Yatra commences from July 11 for a period of 30 days.

How The Kanwar Yatra Traces Back To Lord Parshuram

According to the Hindu mythology, the origin of the Kanwar Yatra goes back to the history of Lord Parshuram, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Son of Sage Jamadagni and Mother Renuka, Lord Parshuram was a profound follower of Lord Shiv.

As per ancient scriptures, he once went to Garh Mukteshwar, took sacred water from the Ganga, and administered the ceremonial Abhishek of Lord Shiv. This act of deep devotion is said to have laid the foundation for what has now evolved into the annual Kanwar Yatra, drawing millions of devotees every year.

The Story Of Shravan Kumar's Devotion During Treta Yuga

Another mythological legend comes from the Treta Yuga and revolves around Shravan Kumar, whose devotion towards his parents and Lord Shiv left an immortal imprint on religious traditions.

When his old parents showed their desire to take a bath in the holy Ganga, Shravan Kumar placed them on his shoulders in a kanwar, a bamboo stick with pots hung on either side, and went to Haridwar. After granting their desire, they returned with the holy water to conduct an Abhishek of Lord Shiv. This story is also said to have prompted the Kanwar tradition that prevails even today.