The Kawad Yatra, an auspicious pilgrimage observed by devotees of Lord Shiva, takes place annually during the Hindu month of Shravan, corresponding to July and August in the English calendar. Commencing on Pradipada tithi (the first day) of the Shravan month, this yatra is also known as Jal Yatra. During this journey, bearers known as ‘Kawadiyas’ or Kanvadias travel to Hindu pilgrimage sites like Sultanganj in Bihar, Gangotri and Gaumukh in Uttarakhand, and Haridwar to fetch water from the Holy Ganges. This sacred water, called ‘Ganga Jal,’ is then offered at Shiva temples in their hometowns.

The Origin and Timing of Kawad Yatra

Initially, the Kawad Yatra was observed in the month of ‘Bhado’ according to the Hindu calendar. However, after the start of the Shravan Mela (fair) in 1960, the yatra began in Shravan and continued until Dussera. While the Kawad Yatra is primarily observed during Shravan, the number of Kanvarias increases significantly during other major Hindu occasions like Maha Shivratri and Basant Panchami. Each year, approximately 2 crore devotees embark on this holy journey, making the Shravan Mela one of North India's largest religious gatherings. Importantly, the yatra is not limited to men; women also participate in large numbers.

Rituals of Kawad Yatra

During the Kawad Yatra, devotees carry the ‘Kanvar’ on both shoulders. The Kanvar is a small bamboo pole with two colored earthen pots tied to its opposite ends. The Kanvarias fill these pots with holy water, balancing them on their shoulders throughout the journey. This month-long ritual involves wearing saffron-colored clothes and walking barefoot to collect holy water from chosen pilgrimage destinations. Upon returning home, the devotees perform the ‘abhishekam’ (holy anointment) of the Shivling at local temples as an act of thanksgiving for the blessings in their lives. A crucial aspect of the journey is ensuring that the earthen pots do not touch the ground. Numerous makeshift stands are set up along the route, allowing Kanvarias to rest.

Most Kanvarias walk in groups, chanting ‘Bol Bam’ and religious bhajans in praise of Lord Shiva. While many travel on foot, some use bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, jeeps, or mini trucks. Serving the Kanvarias is also considered auspicious. Various NGOs provide free services like food, water, tea, and medical assistance along the route. While most organizations operate during Shravan, some, like Bol Bum Sewa Samiti, work year-round.

Significance of Kawad Yatra

The Kawad Yatra holds deep spiritual significance. By participating in this form of worship, Kanvarias take a spiritual break, relaxing their minds by chanting religious hymns. This diversion helps them escape stressful and negative situations, often leading to inspirational ideas. A relaxed mind is known to be more creative. Collecting holy water from the Ganges symbolizes gathering creative and positive ideas, which are then carried back to their workplaces to complete unfinished tasks. Completing the Kawad Yatra is believed to bestow divine blessings from Lord Shiva, making the devotees' wishes come true.

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[The images used in this blog post are not owned by Anime Devta, they are just for entertainment purposes]

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~Mimansa Sharma