Kanwar Yatra Begins with Devotion and Tight Security
The sacred month of Sawan began on Friday, July 11, 2025, marking the start of the Kanwar Yatra — a spiritual pilgrimage attracting over 45 million devotees across northern India. Pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, collect Ganga water and walk long distances to offer it at Shiva temples during this month-long religious journey.
Major arrangements have been made in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand to ensure safety. CCTV surveillance, extra personnel deployment, and traffic diversions are in place along pilgrimage routes. Meat shops have been ordered shut, and food inspections are being conducted to maintain the sanctity of the yatra.
In Ghaziabad, BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar demanded immediate closure of meat shops on the Kanwar path, stating licenses are invalid during Sawan. Meanwhile, posters have appeared in Muradnagar warning against the harassment of women Kanwariyas, raising communal concerns.
A controversy also erupted in Haridwar as Hindu groups urged the government to ban Muslim artisans from crafting Kanwars. Muslim families involved in this trade for generations insist that they are simply continuing a cultural tradition. The Uttarakhand government has yet to issue any directive on the matter.
Authorities have called for discipline, urging devotees to use designated routes. Delhi Police’s Additional Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Gupta assured full preparedness and urged cooperation from the public.
The Kanwar Yatra will continue until August 9, with Sawan Shivratri being observed on July 23. The administration is on high alert as millions are expected to participate in one of India’s largest religious events.
