Kanwar Yatra

Description

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Context

Millions of Kanwariyas, devotees of Shiva, started their Kanwar yatra on 4^th
The journey is also known as kriyas and will continue toll July 15.

Kanwar Yatra

This is an annual Hindu pilgrimage which is undertaken in the Hindu month of Sawan, generally falls in July-August.
A symbol of faith, Kanwar yatra shows the devotion of the devotees to lord Shiva.
It also symbolizes a strong bond between a devotee and Lord Shiva.

Mythological story

Story 1

As per Hindu mythological texts during war between gods and devils, sometimes referred to as Samudra Manthan, Lord shiva consumed poison to save the world.
Water from the river Ganga was poured on Shiva to pacify the effects of poison.
This journey to offer water is believed to be originated from this story.

Story 2

However some believes that the journey or ritual to offer Ganga water to lord Shiva started when Lord Rama offered Ganga water to the shivalinga, statue of Shiva.

Story 3

Some associate this pilgrimage to the legend of Shrawan kumar, who carried his parents for pilgrimage in baskets hanging around a bamboo sling.

Process and activities during Kanwar Yatra

Lakhs of devotees from various parts of India wear saffron attire.
They travel to Gomukh, Haridwar and Gangotri, on foot, to collect holy water of river ganga.
This water is carried in two earthern pot which are Hung on a decorated bamboo stick, which is known as Kanwar.
The bamboo stick along with earthen pot is balanced on the soldiers of devotees, Kanwarias.
They believe that dust can impure the water hence they keep the earthen pot hung all the time and do not put them on ground.
Various Kanwar camps to ease the travel of devotees are set up across the travel routes where they can hang their Kanwars, take rest, get free meals and medical assistance.
Finally this water is brought to their native place and offered to Lord Shiva.