Devotees of Lord Shiva thronged temples across India on Friday as the holy month of Sawan began with massive spiritual fervour.
From early morning, crowds gathered at major pilgrimage sites to offer prayers and perform the traditional jal abhishek.
In Varanasi, the day at Kashi Vishwanath temple began with the auspicious Mangala Aarti. Temple authorities then opened the gates for public darshan, drawing long, orderly queues of devotees eager to seek blessings from Baba Vishwanath.
“The darshan went very well. The arrangements are excellent, and cleanliness is commendable. Everyone entered in a disciplined manner,” said one devotee.
Another added, “The government has done a great job with the facilities.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his wishes via social media platform X, writing 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!”
The holy Kanwar Yatra also kicked off on Friday.
Pilgrims set out from ancient Shiva temples across Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj, where a large crowd gathered at Dashashwamedh Ghat to collect sacred Ganga water.
Devotees believe that offering this water to Lord Shiva fulfils their deepest wishes.
In Haridwar, the spiritual capital of Uttarakhand, pilgrims filled Har Ki Pauri from the early hours.
Devotees took ritualistic dips in the Ganga and filled pots with Gangajal before setting off on their sacred journey.
Chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ echoed across the ghats, creating an atmosphere of divine devotion.
The administration deployed police personnel at key points and set up medical camps, rest zones, and refreshment stalls to ensure a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims.
The vibrant energy of the kanwariyas transformed Haridwar into a symbol of devotion and spiritual unity on the first day of Sawan.
Also Read: Amarnath Yatra: Over 1.45 Lakh Pilgrims Perform Darshan In First Eight Days
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