Sawan 2026: The holy month of Sawan begins today, July 30. With this, the sounds of the Kanwar Yatra, the ritual offering of water (Jalabhishek) at Shiva temples, and chants hailing Lord Bhole-nath will resonate across the country. On the first Monday of Sawan, a large number of Kanwariyas (pilgrims carrying holy water) are setting out for Ayodhya, Kashi, and other major Shiva pilgrimage sites to offer water to Lord Shiva. Anticipating the surge in devotees, the administration has finalized arrangements to ensure pilgrims face no inconvenience during the journey.
Comprehensive arrangements for Kanwariyas in Ayodhya: Shelters, water, and sanitation
The Ayodhya Municipal Corporation has made special arrangements across the city for the Sawan fair and the Kanwar Yatra. Municipal teams will continuously monitor cleanliness and other logistical aspects throughout the fair.
Special attention has been paid to sanitation, drinking water, and essential amenities for the devotees.
Given the rainy season, waterproof shelters have been erected at four key locations in the city so that Kanwariyas can take safe refuge during heavy downpours.
Ritual offering with Saryu water, followed by the Jhoola (Swing) Festival
During the first 15 days of Sawan, a large number of devotees will arrive in Ayodhya to collect holy water from the Saryu River and carry it in Kanwars to perform Jalabhishek at Shiva temples in their respective regions. A special Jalabhishek ceremony will also take place at the Nageshwar Dham in Ayodhya, a temple believed to have been established by the sons of Lord Ram. Following this, the famous Jhoola (Swing) Festival will commence at Mani Parvat on the third day (Tritiya) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Sawan. During this period, the deities will be placed on swings in various city temples, and devotees will have the opportunity to earn spiritual merit by gently swinging them.
Expected footfall of 8 to 10 million devotees at Kashi Vishwanath Dham
The administration of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi anticipates the arrival of approximately 8 to 10 million devotees during Sawan this year. Keeping this in mind, all preparations regarding security and Darshan (viewing of the deity) within the temple complex have been completed. To ensure the convenience of devotees, arrangements such as zigzag barricading, shaded areas for long queues, and the availability of glucose and drinking water will be in place.
Flowers will be showered upon devotees on the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan as well as on every subsequent Monday. Additionally, facilities for ‘Live Darshan’ (virtual viewing) will be available on the temple’s official social media platforms.
VIP Darshan Suspended and Polythene Completely Banned Due to Crowds
In view of the massive influx of devotees, VIP and protocol-based darshan have been temporarily suspended. These arrangements will resume only after the crowd levels normalize. The temple administration has clearly stated that polythene is strictly prohibited within the Kashi Vishwanath Dham premises. Therefore, devotees arriving from outside should not bring Kanwar water in plastic or polythene containers. All devotees are urged to use eco-friendly materials.
Important Guidelines for Kanwariyas During the Pilgrimage
If you are undertaking the Kanwar Yatra during the month of Sawan, please ensure you follow the instructions issued by the administration.
Do not carry water in plastic or polythene containers into Kashi Vishwanath Dham.
In crowded areas, move forward only within the designated queues and adhere to the barricading arrangements.
Given the rainy season, make use of the waterproof sheds set up by the administration if needed.
Prevent dehydration by consuming water or glucose at regular intervals.
Most importantly, do not believe in rumors; instead, follow the guidelines issued by the administration to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
