Kanyar Yatra 2025: 10 Must-Follow Rules For Kanwariyas | Lifestyle News

Last Updated:July 04, 2025, 11:15 IST

The 2025 Kanwar Yatra starts on July 11 and ends on July 23. Devotees carry water from holy rivers in a Kanwar to offer it on a Shivling as part of the sacred ritual of Jalabhishek

Kanwar Yatra 2025: The holy month of Sawan, also known as Shravan, is set to begin on Friday, July 11. It is considered one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar and is especially dear to Lord Bholenath (Shiva). Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers to Lord Shiva, and undertake the sacred Kanwar Yatra to seek blessings and fulfil their wishes.

The Kanwar Yatra begins on the first day of Sawan, which is Shravan Krishna Pratipada. During this pilgrimage, Shiva devotees collect water from holy rivers in a Kanwar (a decorated bamboo pole) and perform Jalabhishek on a Shivling. However, the yatra must be undertaken while observing strict spiritual and religious discipline.

Although state governments have issued administrative guidelines for the yatra, there are several religious rules that every Kanwariya must follow. The 2025 Kanwar Yatra will begin on July 11 and conclude with Sawan Shivratri on July 23. However, in many states the yatra continues throughout the entire month. Here are the religious rules for Kanwar Yatra that devotees should follow:

• The Kanwar Yatra is a symbol of devotion to Mahadev. Devotees must keep their thoughts, speech, and actions pure from the beginning of the yatra until Jalabhishek is completed.
• Both body and mind must remain pure. The yatra is not fruitful if undertaken with negative emotions or hatred towards others.
• If you need to stop for urination or any other reason, do not place the Kanwar on the ground. Keep it on a clean wooden or iron stand or hang it on a tree.
• Always carry a small bottle of Gangajal (Ganges water). After urination, purify yourself with Gangajal before resuming the journey. If possible, take a bath.
• Refrain from consuming onion, garlic, meat, alcohol, cigarettes, or any intoxicants. Such items are considered impure and are prohibited during Sawan.
• Some devotees wrongly associate cannabis or intoxicants with Shiva worship. Lord Shiva consumed poison to save the universe, not for pleasure. His pain is soothed by Jalabhishek, not substance use.
• Never harbour ill intentions during the yatra. Lord Shiva sees the past, present, and future. Surrender to him with a pure heart and he will bless you.
• Devotees should sing devotional songs and chant the name of Lord Shiva throughout the yatra. His blessings are with those who remain devoted.
• Lord Shiva is also known as Pashupatinath, the protector of all living beings. Avoid hurting animals or any living creature during the yatra.
• Always wear clean clothes during the yatra. After each day’s journey, take a bath and change into fresh clothes before continuing.

By following these religious practices, devotees not only complete the Kanwar Yatra with spiritual integrity but also promote discipline, peace, and purity – the essence of Lord Shiva’s teachings.

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