Bhubaneswar: The sacred month of ‘Shravana’, also known as Sawan, holds great significance in the Hindu calendar, typically falling between July and August every year.
During this auspicious period, devotees of Lord Shiva, known as Kanwariyas or Kaudias, undertake a revered pilgrimage called Kanwar Yatra. They embark on a journey to sacred rivers, carrying sacred water in pots called kanwars, balanced on their shoulders with a pole.
Kanwariyas, often dressed in saffron and yellow coloured clothes, walk long distances barefoot during the entire spiritual journey, chanting the name of Lord Shiva and ‘Bol Bom’.
They typically observe strict rituals and disciplines during their journey, such as abstaining from non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and other indulgences. Some devotees also abstain from cutting their hair and nails during this month.
This year, the Holy month of Sawan begins on July 22 and ends on August 19, being observed for 29 days. During the Mondays, also known as ‘Sawan Somwar’, devotees will fast in reverence to Lord Shiva, offering their prayers at temples.
The auspicious ‘Sawan Somwars’ will be observed on July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, and August 15, marking the end of Sawan observation.
Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Odisha, especially Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack, Kapilash Temple in Dhenkanal, Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, and Akhandalamani Temple in Bhadrak, are expected to witness a maximum gathering of devotees during the Holy month, citing religious significance.
Other Shiva temples will also witness crowds of devotees during Mondays of the Sawan month.
