New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The first Monday of the holy month of Sawan witnessed an overwhelming turnout of devotees at Shiva temples across the country, as lakhs of worshippers gathered from the early hours to perform jalabhishek and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Considered one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar, the occasion was marked by religious fervour, devotional chants and elaborate temple rituals.
The month of Sawan, which commenced on July 30, will continue until August 28. Mondays during this period hold special significance for devotees, who observe fasts and offer prayers for prosperity, peace, good health and marital happiness.
Devotional Atmosphere at Kashi Vishwanath
In Varanasi, thousands of devotees began the day with a holy dip in the Ganga before making their way to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple premises were beautifully decorated for the occasion, while special prayers and the Mangala Aarti were held before devotees offered sacred water to Lord Shiva.
Pilgrims appreciated the arrangements made by the administration, noting that despite the massive crowds, the darshan process remained smooth and well-organised. Temple officials also welcomed Kanwariyas with flower showers as they entered the shrine.
Haridwar Temple Draws Large Number of Pilgrims
The Daksha Mahadev Temple in Haridwar’s Kankhal area also witnessed heavy footfall from before sunrise. The temple, which holds immense religious importance during Shravan, echoed with Vedic chants as devotees lined up to perform rituals.
Priests at the temple explained that many devotees believe Lord Shiva symbolically resides at this sacred site during the month of Sawan, making it a highly auspicious destination for worship.
Baba Baidyanath Temple Witnesses Heavy Footfall
Devotees from different states also gathered in large numbers at the Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Long queues were seen throughout the day as pilgrims patiently waited for darshan.
Many visitors praised the arrangements made for crowd control and security, saying the administration ensured that devotees could complete their prayers without major inconvenience despite the heavy rush.
Administration Tightens Security
With large gatherings expected throughout the month, authorities at major pilgrimage centres have deployed additional security personnel, strengthened crowd-management systems and made special arrangements for devotees.
Officials have appealed to pilgrims to cooperate with security agencies, follow designated routes and adhere to safety guidelines while visiting temples.
Sacred Month of Worship
Sawan is regarded as one of the most revered months dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees across India observe fasts, participate in religious ceremonies, undertake Kanwar Yatras and visit prominent Shiva temples during this period. The first Sawan Somwar traditionally attracts some of the largest gatherings, setting the tone for the remaining Mondays of the holy month.
