The sacred month of Sawan has officially begun, and with it, the Kanwar Yatra 2025 has commenced across northern India. Millions of Lord Shiva devotees are taking part in this annual pilgrimage, walking long distances carrying holy Ganga water in decorated "Kanwars" to offer at Shiva temples. This year’s Yatra will continue until August 9, with an estimated 4.5 crore (45 million) devotees expected to participate, especially from Haridwar.

Massive Footfall at Ganga Ghats

From the early hours of the first Sawan Friday, large crowds of pilgrims have gathered at iconic ghats like Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. Devotees, dressed in saffron and carrying colorful Kanwars, can be seen walking toward their destination temples in what is one of the biggest religious gatherings in the country.

Enhanced Security Across Three States

To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the Yatra, authorities in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand have deployed thousands of police personnel. CCTV surveillance, drone monitoring, and mobile patrolling units have been activated across the key Kanwar routes. Temporary medical camps, food stalls, and rest areas have also been set up.

The Delhi Police has issued a special advisory urging pilgrims to stick to the designated paths. “All preparations have been made to maintain order and ensure the safety of pilgrims,” said Additional Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Gupta.

Crackdown on Meat Shops Along Pilgrimage Routes

In Ghaziabad, local BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar issued a stern warning against meat shops operating along the Kanwar Yatra route. He stated that all licenses for such establishments are temporarily invalid during the holy month and demanded immediate closure, citing the religious sentiments of the pilgrims.

Posters Stir Controversy in Muradnagar

Tensions flared in Muradnagar (Uttar Pradesh) after members of the Hindu Raksha Dal placed posters on Hindu-owned shops, warning against harassment of Kanwariyas by members of other communities. “We are only here to protect Kanwaris and especially ensure the safety of women devotees,” said activist Gaurav Sisodia.

Communal Dispute Over Kanwar-Making in Haridwar

A fresh controversy has arisen in Haridwar regarding the tradition of Muslim artisans crafting Kanwars. Some Hindu saints and mahants, including Swami Yatindranand Giri of the Juna Akhada, have written to Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, demanding a ban on Muslim involvement in Kanwar-making. However, over 50 Muslim families in the Jwalapur area continue the craft, as they have for generations. The state government has not imposed any restrictions in this regard.

Call for Peace and Devotion

Amid the growing crowd and rising tensions, officials are calling for discipline and cooperation. The administration emphasizes that the spiritual essence of the Kanwar Yatra must remain intact. The Sawan Shivratri, a key date in the month, will be celebrated on July 23, and pilgrims will continue to pour Ganga water on Shiva Lingams until August 9.

Highlights:

• Start Date: July 11, 2025

• End Date: August 9, 2025

• Key Day: Sawan Shivratri on July 23

• Estimated Pilgrims: 4.5 crore

• Major Routes: Haridwar to Delhi, Ghaziabad, Meerut, and other cities

• States Involved: Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand

The Kanwar Yatra remains not just a religious journey but also a reflection of India’s cultural vibrancy and diversity. With appropriate security, logistics, and respect for traditions, authorities aim to ensure that the 2025 Yatra remains peaceful, safe, and spiritually fulfilling.