NewKerala.com

Key Points

The sacred month of Sawan kicked off with immense devotion as thousands gathered at Kashi Vishwanath and Haridwar temples. Devotees praised the excellent arrangements while performing jal abhishek and collecting Ganga water. CM Yogi Adityanath greeted the public with heartfelt wishes for the auspicious month. The Kanwar Yatra also commenced, filling the ghats with spiritual chants and vibrant energy.

Key Points: Devotees Flock to Kashi Haridwar Temples on First Day of Sawan

  • Kashi Vishwanath sees massive queues for jal abhishek
  • Yogi Adityanath extends Sawan greetings on social media
  • Kanwar Yatra begins with pilgrims collecting Ganga water
  • Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri echoes with Har Har Mahadev chants
2 min read

First day of Sawan: Devotees throng temples in Kashi, Haridwar

Thousands of Lord Shiva devotees gather at Kashi Vishwanath and Haridwar temples as the holy month of Sawan begins with grand celebrations.

"Today is the first day of Sawan, and the darshan went very well. The arrangements and facilities are excellent. – Devotee at Kashi Vishwanath"

New Delhi, July 11

The sacred month of Sawan began on Friday with an overwhelming display of devotion across major pilgrimage sites, as thousands of Lord Shiva devotees lined up to offer prayers and perform 'jal abhishek' at temples.

At the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, the day started with the 'Mangala Aarti', followed by the opening of the temple gates for public darshan. Devotees, filled with enthusiasm, formed long but orderly queues, eager to seek the blessings of Baba Vishwanath.

"Today is the first day of Sawan, and the darshan went very well. The arrangements and facilities are excellent. The government has done a great job, and the cleanliness is very good. Everyone entered in an orderly manner," said a devotee outside the temple.

Another devotee added, “The arrangements are excellent.”

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his wishes on the social media platform X (writing originally in Hindi), "Heartfelt greetings to all devotees and residents of the state on the auspicious month of Sawan, dedicated to the worship of Lord Bholenath! May Mahadev, the God of gods, bless the entire universe. OM namah shivay!"

Meanwhile, the holy Kanwar Yatra also commenced today, with pilgrims setting out from ancient Shiva temples across the state of Uttar Pradesh. In Prayagraj, a large number of devotees gathered at the Dashashwamedh Ghat to collect the sacred Ganga water, believed to fulfil wishes when offered to Lord Shiva.

In Devbhoomi Haridwar, a spiritual wave of Shiva devotion swept across the city. Pilgrims from far and wide thronged Har Ki Pauri from the early hours, taking holy dips in the Ganga and filling their pots with Gangajal before proceeding to their destinations. The chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echoed across the ghats, infusing the air with spiritual fervour.

The administration ensured robust arrangements. Police forces were stationed at key points, while medical camps, refreshment stalls, and resting areas were set up for the comfort of pilgrims. The energy and faith of kanwariyas in Haridwar turned the city into a vibrant symbol of devotion, service, and spirituality on the very first day of Sawan.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The administration deserves appreciation for the smooth arrangements. Last year there were complaints about crowd management, but this time everything seems well organized. More drinking water stations would be helpful though.
S
Sarah B
As someone visiting India for the first time, I'm amazed by the devotion and scale of these celebrations. The energy at Har Ki Pauri was incredible today! Can someone explain more about the significance of Gangajal in Shiva worship?
V
Vikram M
While the spiritual aspect is beautiful, I hope authorities maintain strict COVID protocols. Such large gatherings can become super-spreader events. Devotion shouldn't compromise public health.
K
Kavya N
My heart swells with pride seeing our ancient traditions thriving in modern times! The Kanwar Yatra is such a unique aspect of our culture. Remember to support local vendors selling religious items - they depend on this season for livelihood.
M
Michael C
The synchronization of thousands chanting "Har Har Mahadev" must be an unforgettable experience. India's spiritual tourism potential is truly world-class. More countries should learn about maintaining such living traditions.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50