The month of Sawan is considered the most sacred and auspicious time in Hinduism. During this period, special worship of Lord Shiva is performed. This year, Sawan begins on July 11, 2025. This month is dedicated to Jalabhishek (offering water), Rudrabhishek, Kanwar Yatra, and observing Shiva Vrat (fasts).
It is believed that during Sawan, Lord Shiva himself descends from Kailash to Earth. The question arises: where does Shiva reside on earth? Behind this lies a deeply interesting and profound mythological story connected to a place called Kankhal in Haridwar.
Why Lord Shiva comes to Earth every Sawan
According to mythology, Lord Shiva, along with his consort Mata Parvati and the entire Gana family, descends from Kailash to Earth during the month of Sawan. During this time, they reside in the Kankhal region of Haridwar, which is considered the residence of Daksha Prajapati, the father of Goddess Sati.
It is said that when Shiva is on Earth in Sawan, he fulfills all the wishes of his devotees. This month is extremely beneficial for Shiva devotees.
Why Kankhal is Shiva's in-laws' house
The Shiva Purana and other mythological texts mention that Kankhal was the maternal home of Goddess Sati. Goddess Sati was the first wife of Lord Shiva and her father was Daksha Prajapati. Once, Daksha organized a grand Yajna (fire sacrifice) in Kankhal but did not invite Shiva. Sati decided to go to the Yajna without an invitation and, upon reaching there, could not bear the insults directed towards Shiva by her father. She immolated herself in the Yajna Kund (sacrificial fire pit).
Shiva's wrath in the form of Virabhadra
Upon hearing the news of Sati's death, Shiva became extremely enraged. He created a powerful Gana named Virabhadra, who destroyed the Yajna and beheaded Daksha. Later, on the request of the Gods, Shiva gave Daksha a new life and attached a goat's head to his torso.
Daksha sought forgiveness from Shiva and requested that he visit Kankhal every year during Sawan and accept service at his home. Since then, the belief has been that Lord Shiva resides in Kankhal during the month of Sawan.
Faith associated with the Dakshswara Mahadev Temple
The "Dakshswara Mahadev Temple" in Kankhal, Haridwar, still exists today and is associated with this mythological story. In this temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped especially during Sawan. Thousands of devotees from all over the country come here during this time and seek Shiva's blessings.
It is believed that merely visiting this temple in Sawan yields the fruits of merit. Devotees offer Bel Patra (bael leaves), water, Dhatura (thorn apple), and milk to please the Lord.
Why Kanwar Yatra is special in Sawan
The Kanwar Yatra holds special significance in North India during the month of Sawan. Kanwariyas (devotees participating in the Kanwar Yatra) carry Gangajal (water from the Ganges) on foot and offer it to Shiva temples. It is believed that this journey pleases Lord Shiva, and all troubles are removed by his grace.
Kanwariyas bring water from pilgrimage sites like Haridwar, Gangotri, Gaumukh, and Deoghar and perform abhishek (ritual bathing) in Shiva temples in their respective towns. Haridwar remains the main center of this journey, from where the Kanwariyas start carrying water and sing praises of Shiva along the way with the chanting of "Bol Bam."
Why Sawan is the best for Shiva's grace
According to the Shiva Purana, chanting mantras, performing Rudrabhishek, and observing fasts during Sawan bring special benefits. During this month, Lord Shiva stays closer to his devotees on Earth. Special worship takes place in Shiva Jyotirlingas like Kashi, Ujjain, Baidyanathdham, Someshwarnath, and Tryambakeshwar.
Fasting on Mondays during Sawan holds special importance. On this day, unmarried girls fast to find a good husband, while married women worship Shiva for the long life of their husbands and a happy married life.
