Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami welcomed Kanwariyas in Haridwar by washing their feet and showering them with flowers, saying - serving them is a privilege.
Cm Pushkar Singh Dhami: Haridwar, the religious city of Uttarakhand, is currently immersed in the colors of devotion to Lord Shiva. The air is filled with chants of 'Bol Bam,' 'Har Har Mahadev,' and the sight of saffron flags. Amidst this emotional and religious atmosphere, a special moment unfolded when Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami arrived in Haridwar and honored the Kanwariyas by washing their feet. This scene was not only a symbol of reverence and service but also a living testament to the government's respect and social commitment towards the devotees of Lord Shiva.
Confluence of Faith and Service: An Unprecedented Welcome by the Chief Minister
When Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami reached Haridwar, he first greeted the Shiva devotees, who had walked hundreds of kilometers to collect Ganga water, with folded hands. Then, he personally washed the feet of the Kanwariyas, adorned them with garlands, and distributed fruits. This scene moved everyone present. The devotees present there blessed the Chief Minister and filled the sky with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev.'
Flower Shower from Helicopter: Reverence Raining from the Sky
Under the direction of the Chief Minister, flowers were showered on the Kanwariyas in Haridwar from a helicopter as a special arrangement. Seeing this sight, the eyes of the devotees welled up with tears, and they were immersed in chants of the name of Shiva. Chief Minister Dhami said, 'It is a matter of privilege for me that I have got the opportunity to serve the devotees of Lord Shiva. This journey is both sacred and difficult. I pray to Lord Shiva that the journey of all Kanwariyas be safe and auspicious.'
Importance of Kanwar Yatra: The Most Difficult Journey of Faith
Every year in the month of Sawan, the Kanwar Yatra becomes a religious festival that connects millions of devotees in North India. Shiva devotees travel on foot from pilgrimage sites like Haridwar, Gangotri, and Gaumukh in Uttarakhand, carrying Ganga water back to their villages and cities to perform Jalabhishek on the Shivling. This time, the Uttarakhand government has taken several steps to make it convenient for the devotees by arranging special security and services during the yatra.
CM Dhami's Message: Take Inspiration from Shiva, Do Welfare of Society
In a conversation with reporters, Chief Minister Dhami said, 'When Lord Shiva drank the Halahal poison for the welfare of the world, his devotees should also adopt the same tolerance and spirit of service. If there is any difficulty in the Kanwar Yatra, bear it, but do not cause trouble to others.' He also said that the purpose of the Kanwar Yatra is not only a religious ritual but also a message of restraint, tolerance, and dedication. That is why the state government is ensuring better arrangements for the devotees at every level.
Efforts to Maintain the Dignity of Devbhoomi
Dhami said that Uttarakhand is not just a state but a 'Devbhoomi' (Land of Gods). His government is constantly striving to protect its cultural and religious identity. He informed that strict laws have been made to prevent social problems like religious conversion, love jihad, and land jihad in the state. Apart from this, for the first time in the country, a historic decision has been taken by implementing the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand.
Security and Convenience: Special Attention of the Administration for the Kanwariyas
The Chief Minister informed that the police, administration, and relief department are working together to provide all possible assistance to the Kanwariyas. Arrangements like health camps, mobile medical units, water distribution centers, mobile toilets, and route management are making this year's journey more organized and safe.
