Kanwar Yatra History: As soon as the month of Sawan begins, chants of Bam-Bam Bhole and Har-Har Mahadev start echoing all around. It is worth seeing the enthusiasm of Shiva devotees carrying Kanwar on their shoulders and traveling miles barefoot. But do you know what is the real secret behind this tradition of bringing Ganga water in Kanwar in the holy month of Sawan? After all, why have crores of people been following this tradition for centuries? Let us know about the mythology behind it.
When will Sawan 2026 start?
According to the calendar, in the year 2026, the holy month of Saavan will start from July 30 and end on August 28. During this entire month, worship of Lord Shiva, fasting, Rudrabhishek and Kanwar Yatra have special significance.
The secret of Kanwar Yatra is related to Samudra Manthan
According to mythology, when the gods and demons churned the ocean, the first poisonous substance named Halahal came out. The fire of this poison was so fierce that the entire creation was in danger. Then Lord Shiva drank that poison to save the world. Mother Parvati did not allow the poison to go down the throat of Lord Shiva, due to which his throat turned blue and he was called Neelkanth. However, due to the effect of poison, unbearable heat and burning sensation occurred in his body.
Jalabhishek was done to give coolness to Lord Shiva
It is believed that to calm the burning sensation in Lord Shiva’s body, the gods brought water from holy rivers including Ganga and anointed him. This gave coolness to Mahadev and the effect of poison also reduced. After this incident, the tradition of offering water to Lord Shiva started. It is said that by bringing holy water in Kanwar during Sawan and offering it on Shivalinga, one gets the same virtue which the gods got by serving Lord Shiva.
Why does Kanwar Yatra happen only in Sawan?
There is a religious belief that the month of Saavan is most dear to Lord Shiva. During this time, nature is also filled with greenery and the atmosphere remains cool. Therefore, performing Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva in this month gives special results. It is believed that the wishes of the devotees who undertake Kanwar Yatra with devotion and rules in Sawan are fulfilled. Lord Shiva removes their problems and blesses them with happiness and prosperity in life.
Why is Kanwar Yatra considered a penance?
Kanwar Yatra is not only a religious journey but also a symbol of faith, discipline and self-control. Kanwariyas walk for several kilometers to fetch holy water. During this time they eat satvik food, follow celibacy, stay away from anger and negative thoughts and chant the name of Lord Shiva continuously. This is the reason why this journey is considered like a difficult penance. This sadhana done with devotion and rules is considered very dear to Lord Shiva.
Also read: Perform Jalabhishek of Bholenath in this way in Sawan, every wish will be fulfilled!
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.
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