Kanwar Yatra: A Path To Lord Shiva's Blessings
The Kanwar Yatra 2024 runs from July 22 to August 2, ending on Sawan Shivratri
The first Sawan Shivratri water offering was on July 16, and the second will be on August 15
Pilgrims, known as Kanvarias, walk barefoot in saffron attire, carrying a bamboo pole with clay pots (kanvar) to collect holy water for Lord Shiva
The holy water is used for abhishekam, offering it to the Shivling in gratitude, while ensuring the pots never touch the ground
The pilgrimage aims to calm the mind, inspire thoughts, and bring blessings, with strict rules on transportation, diet, and handling the kanvar
Ravana was the first Kanvaria, using Ganga water to aid Lord Shiva, linking the yatra to the Samudra Manthan where Shiva became Neelkanth
Completing the yatra is believed to fulfill desires, and serving Kanvarias is considered auspicious