Tens of thousands of devotees from all walks of life took part in the Sanskar Kanwar Yatra, which is considered one of the largest religious congregations in the city, on Monday. The yatra is an annual pilgrimage that takes place during the holy month of Saavan when Kanwadias carry the sacred water of Maa Narmada and the Shiv Swaroop Dev Vriksh (sacred tree) in a Kanwar (sacred water pot) on their shoulders. The Kanwadias, who came from all walks of life and various age groups, endured long distance of 35 km and braved weather conditions to undertake this Yatra and take blessings for good health, prosperity and happiness.

 

The Kanwar Yatra was not just a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza. Along the way, devotees were welcomed with music, dance, and prayers at various ‘Swagat Manch’ set up by local communities. People offered fruits, water and medical facilities to the pilgrims. Heavy police bandobast was made on entire route to ensure the safety and security of devotees. The Kanwar Yatra culminated at Kailash Dham Temple, where devotees performed Abhishek of Lord Shiva with the holy water of Maa Narmada. The temple premise was beautifully decorated and a grand aarti performed amidst chanting of hymns and mantras. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and spirituality, as thousands of devotees offered their prayers to Lord Shiva.

 

Earlier, the devotees congregated at Gaurighat and took the holy water of river Narmada after worship and rituals. A number of political leaders, religious gurus, saints and dignitaries including Mayor, Jagat Bahadur Singh,former Chief Minister Digvijay Singh, Dr Jitendra Jamdar, MLA Ashok Rohani and others welcomed the Kanwadias and also took part in the Yatra.