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Mumbai: The month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. In 2025, this holy month will commence on 11 July 2025, marking the beginning of a series of devotional rituals, fasts, and festivals dedicated especially to Lord Shiva. Among these observances, the Kawad Yatra stands out as a powerful display of devotion — a pilgrimage where Shiva devotees, known as Kanwariyas, carry holy water from sacred rivers to offer at Shiva temples.

This year, the Kawad Yatra will begin alongside the start of Shravan month, on Friday, 11 July 2025. However, the culmination of this pilgrimage takes place on Sawan Shivratri, when the collected water is reverently poured over the Shivling. In 2025, Sawan Shivratri falls on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, making it the most auspicious day for devotees to offer their Kawad.

Key Kawad Yatra 2025 Dates and Significance

• Start of Shravan Month (Sawan 2025): Friday, 11 July 2025
• Sawan Shivratri Date: Wednsday, 23 July 2025
• Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 23 July, 4:39 AM
• Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 24 July, 2:28 am

Sawan Shivratri is observed on the Chaturdashi tithi of Krishna Paksha, which is celebrated monthly as Masik Shivratri. However, the Shravan month’s Shivratri is considered especially potent for Shiva worship. On this day, devotees observe a day-long fast, perform rituals, and offer their Kawad water to the Shivling with deep reverence.

What is the Kawad Yatra?

The Kawad Yatra is a major spiritual journey undertaken by Lord Shiva’s devotees, predominantly in North India. Pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, walk barefoot — often for several days — carrying decorated bamboo poles (kawads) that hold sacred water from rivers like the Ganga or Yamuna. This water is then offered to a Shiva temple, usually at places like Haridwar, Gaumukh, Varanasi, or local shrines.

The pilgrimage is not just a test of physical endurance but also of unwavering faith. During the Yatra, cities and towns across India witness large processions, chants of “Bol Bam”, and an atmosphere charged with spiritual fervour.

Devotion in Every Step

In 2025, lakhs of devotees are expected to participate in the Kawad Yatra during Shravan. As the holy month begins, preparations for safe pilgrimages, medical camps, and route management are likely to be initiated by local authorities to support the incoming footfall.