How did the Kanwar Yatra start?

Every year in the month of Sawan when it rains from the sky and the fragrance of greenery spreads all around, then another wave runs on the roads - the wave of devotees of Bhole Baba, which we know as Kanwar Yatra. Saffron clothes, Kanwar on the shoulder, the echo of 'Bol Bam' on the lips and only one feeling in the heart - to reach the feet of Lord Shiva.

But have you ever stopped and thought how this journey started? This tradition is not just faith, it is a living memory of a mysterious story thousands of years old.

When even the gods needed support

This is the time when the gods and demons were churning the ocean together. There was a desire for nectar, but the first thing that came out was Halahal poison, which was so deadly that the entire creation came into trouble.

And then... no one came forward or behind, only one name was called - Mahadev.

Without thinking for a moment, Lord Shiva drank that poison, so that the world could be saved.

The poison got stuck in his throat and he was called Neelkanth. But his body started burning due to the heat of the poison. The gods then offered him Gangajal – cool, pure, calm water, which could reduce his pain.

When man also carried the Kaanvad

It is believed that in that era, Lord Parshuram was the first to fill the Kaanvad with Gangajal and anoint Lord Shiva. He did this not out of devotion, but as a duty – like we serve our father.

Gradually this feeling spread among the people –

"When the gods offer Gangajal to Shiva,
then why shouldn't we do a journey for him every Shravan?"

And from then on, the Kaanvad Yatra started – a tradition that is performed not only with the body, but with the heart.

This journey is not just done with the feet, but with emotions.

Every year, lakhs of Shiva devotees – many without slippers, many without food or water, many struggling with diseases – walk hundreds of kilometers on foot. Just one name at every step – “Bhole Baba”

Just one mantra in every breath – “Har Har Mahadev”
This journey does not stop due to fatigue, Kanwariyas cross rain, sun, dust, mud, everything.

Because this journey is based on faith, not on the path.

Today’s Kanwar – a combination of tradition and celebration

Today Kanwar Yatra has become a symbol of not only religious, but also social unity. People from villages and cities set up service camps, give food, water, medicines for free.

Strangers also walk together, but devotion makes them family.

One last thing

Kanwar Yatra did not start with any date –
It started with one feeling – sacrifice, service and love.
Whenever you see a Kanwariya, do not see him as just a traveller,
See a dedicated soul who is taking the message of his devotion to Bholenath.

Bol Bam!

Har Har Mahadev!