The month of Shravan commenced on July 11th this year, and the atmosphere of the Kanwar Yatra has enveloped the entire North India. Like every year, this time too, lakhs of devotees are setting off on foot to Haridwar, Gangotri, Gomukh, Neelkanth, and other holy sites to collect Gangajal (holy water from the Ganges River).
While earlier this journey was mostly undertaken by young men, either alone or in groups of friends, the trend of families participating in the Kanwar Yatra together has increased rapidly in recent years. From parents to young children, everyone is participating in this pilgrimage.
Increased Love and Togetherness by Traveling Together
Participating in the Kanwar Yatra as a family strengthens relationships. During the journey, each member helps the others, walks alongside them, and moves forward with a shared purpose. This collectivity gives a new dimension to family bonds.
When the entire family faces the midday sun, the fatigue of the night, and the hardships of the journey together, mutual trust and understanding deepen.
The Spiritual Atmosphere Created by Devotion and Bhajans
The environment resonates with the chants of 'Bol Bam' throughout the journey. The sweet sounds of drums, cymbals, conch shells, and devotional songs soothe the mind of every Kanwariya (devotee). When the whole family joins together in these devotional songs, the journey transforms from a mere religious ritual into a spiritual experience.
In this atmosphere, children also embrace the values of Shiva devotion and begin to understand religious principles. This journey, undertaken with the family, becomes an inspirational experience for a lifetime.
Potential Relief from Pitra Dosha (Ancestral Curse)
According to religious beliefs, offering Gangajal to Lord Shiva during the month of Shravan pacifies Pitra Dosha, family curses, and planetary obstacles. When a person undertakes this journey with their entire family and offers water to the Shivling (a representation of Lord Shiva), it leads to the welfare of the entire lineage.
It is said that when the whole family participates in Shiva devotion together, they receive the blessings of the ancestors through Shiva's grace, and happiness, peace, and prosperity prevail in the home.
Increasing Participation of Women and Elderly
The Kanwar Yatra is no longer limited to the youth. In many families, women, mothers, and the elderly are also participating with great devotion. Women walk with their children carrying 'choti Kanwar' (small Kanwar) and praise Lord Shiva.
Traveling with the elderly also benefits the new generation by providing them with their experiences and religious knowledge. This strengthens family traditions even more.
Positive Impact on Children
Another unique aspect of this journey is its impact on children. When children see their parents and grandparents persevering through the difficult journey, religious faith becomes deeply ingrained in their minds.
The saints, Shiva temples, recitations and devotional songs, and the spirit of service seen throughout the journey show children a vibrant glimpse of Indian culture. This plays a vital role in their personality development and character formation.
The Deep Mystery of the Kanwar Yatra
The Kanwar Yatra in the month of Shravan is not just a religious ritual but is also considered a symbol of dedication, patience, discipline, and spiritual purification. When the entire family undertakes this journey together, it does not involve only the body; the mind, soul, and emotions all get connected.
In every stage of this journey, the feeling of devotion, the test of restraint, and the opportunity for service are hidden. Going hundreds of kilometers away from home to fetch water and offering it to the Shivling takes the form of a spiritual practice.
The Feeling of Service and Cooperation at Every Step
During the Kanwar Yatra, service camps are set up along the routes, where travelers are provided with free food, water, medicines, and rest areas. This spirit of service inspires everyone to help each other.
