Sawan Begins with Devotion: Thousands Offer Prayers in Kashi, Haridwar

The holy month of Sawan began on Friday with grand devotion across major pilgrimage places. Thousands of Lord Shiva devotees visited temples to offer prayers and perform 'jal abhishek' (sacred water offering) to the Shiva Lingam.

In Varanasi, the day started with the Mangala Aarti at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, after which the gates were opened for devotees. People stood in long but well-managed queues, full of energy and devotion. A devotee said, "Today is the first day of Sawan. The arrangements were excellent, and darshan went smoothly."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared his wishes on social media, saying, “Heartfelt greetings to everyone on the sacred month of Sawan. May Lord Shiva bless the entire universe. Om Namah Shivaya!”

Meanwhile, the Kanwar Yatra also began. In Prayagraj, devotees collected Ganga water at Dashashwamedh Ghat to offer it to Lord Shiva. In Haridwar, spiritual vibes filled the city as kanwariyas took holy dips at Har Ki Pauri and chanted “Har Har Mahadev.”

The government made strong arrangements with police, medical camps, water stalls, and resting zones for pilgrims. Haridwar turned into a vibrant center of devotion, service, and spirituality on the first day of Sawan.