Kanwar Yatra 2024: Dates, Rituals, Significance and Story

Every year, countless devotees of Lord Shiva embark on the Kanwar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage seeking the divine blessings of the mighty deity. The Kanwar Yatra 2024 is scheduled to begin on July 22, 2024, and will end on August 2, 2024, coinciding with Sawan Shivratri. This yatra holds immense significance and is a highlight in the Hindu religious calendar. Let’s dive into the dates, rituals, significance, and the fascinating story behind this auspicious event.

Kanwar Yatra 2024 Start and End Dates

The Kanwar Yatra in 2024 is scheduled to start on July 22 and end on August 2, aligning with the auspicious occasion of Sawan Shivratri. Devotees eagerly await this time of year to participate in the pilgrimage and offer their prayers to Lord Shiva.

Sawan Shivratri is particularly significant for the water offering ritual, or jalabhishek, performed by the devotees. Interestingly, In 2024, due to the occurrence of Adhik Maas (an extra month in the Hindu calendar), there will be two Sawan Shivratris:

• The first Sawan Shivratri is on July 15, with the auspicious water offering period from 12:11 AM to 12:54 AM on July 16.
• The second Sawan Shivratri falls on August 14, with the water offering period from 12:09 AM to 12:54 AM on August 15.

Rituals of Kanwar Yatra 2024

The journey of the Kanvarias (pilgrims) is marked by deep devotion and stringent rituals. Pilgrims carry a "Kanvar," a small bamboo pole with two colorful clay pots tied to either end, balanced on their shoulders. These clay pots are filled with sacred water, usually from the Ganges, which is then offered at a local Shiva temple.

Key Rituals Include:

1. Walking Barefoot: Devotees walk barefoot, dressed in saffron, reflecting purity and devotion.

2. Carrying the Kanvar: The Kanvar must not touch the ground. Special platforms are set up along the route where pilgrims can rest without placing the Kanvar on the ground.

3. Singing Devotional Songs: The journey is filled with chants of "Bol Bam" and other devotional hymns, creating an atmosphere of spiritual fervor.

4. Water Offering: Upon reaching their hometowns, the pilgrims perform the abhishekam, or holy anointing, of the Shivling, using the sacred water they carried.

While most devotees prefer walking the entire distance, some use bicycles, motorcycles, or even vehicles to complete their pilgrimage. The sense of community and shared devotion is palpable, with groups often traveling together, supporting each other throughout the journey.

How Did the Kanwar Yatra Begin?

The origin of the Kanwar Yatra is rooted in ancient legend. According to mythology, the first Kanvaria was none other than Ravana, a devoted disciple of Lord Shiva. During a crisis caused by the churning of the ocean, Ravana brought Ganga water in his Kanvar and used it to anoint the Shivlinga, helping Lord Shiva neutralize the poison that had emerged.

Significance of Kanwar Yatra 2024 

The Kanwar Yatra holds deep spiritual significance. It is seen as a way to purify the mind and soul, providing a spiritual respite from the struggles of daily life. The act of carrying the holy water symbolizes gathering inspiration and creativity to bring back to one's everyday tasks.

Completing the Kanwar Yatra is believed to invoke Lord Shiva's blessings, fulfilling the devotee's desires. Serving the Kanvarias is also considered highly auspicious.

The Story of Kanwar Yatra

The legend of the Kanwar Yatra is intertwined with the story of Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean. During this event, fourteen rubies emerged, divided between gods and demons. However, a deadly poison also surfaced. To protect the world, Lord Shiva consumed the poison, which was then held in his throat, turning it blue. This earned him the name Neelkanth (blue throat).

According to another myth, Ravana offered Lord Shiva holy water from the Ganga, which helped alleviate the poison's effects. This act of devotion is commemorated through the Kanwar Yatra, where devotees bring Ganga water to offer to Lord Shiva.

Kanwar Yatra 2024 Guidelines

Participants in the Kanwar Yatra must adhere to several guidelines to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage:

1. No Use of Vehicles: Devotees must travel barefoot throughout the Yatra.

2. Dietary Restrictions: Consumption of alcohol, meat, narcotics, and tamasic food (including garlic and onions) is prohibited.

3. Purity: Pilgrims must bathe before touching the Kanwar.

4. Respect for the Kanwar: The Kanwar should never be placed on the ground or on any furniture.

Wrapping Up Words

As you prepare for this holy journey, remember the guidelines and immerse yourself in the chants of "Bol Bam" and the collective spirit of devotion. The Kanwar Yatra is more than a physical journey; it's a path to spiritual awakening and inner peace.

Join the millions who will walk this path in 2024, and experience the transformative power of devotion. May Lord Shiva bless you with peace, prosperity, and fulfillment on this sacred journey. Har Har Mahadev!