Why Kanwariyas Flock to Banaras During Sawan: A Journey of Devotion & Discipline
Sawan, the monsoon month dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most sacred times in the Hindu calendar. Across North India, millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas, take part in an extraordinary pilgrimage—walking barefoot for hundreds of kilometers to fetch holy water from the Ganga River and offer it to Lord Shiva. Among the most spiritually magnetic destinations during Sawan is Banaras (Varanasi)—the ancient city that’s considered the beating heart of Shiva worship.
But why do Kanwariyas flock to Banaras during Sawan? What draws them here in such large numbers, despite the rain, fatigue, and physical hardship? Let’s explore this unique blend of devotion, discipline, and divine connection that transforms Banaras into a river of saffron every Sawan.
The Kanwar Yatra: A Symbol of Bhakti & Self-Purification
The Kanwar Yatra is more than a religious journey—it’s a test of endurance and a spiritual cleanse. Devotees wear saffron clothes, walk barefoot, and carry the kanwar (a bamboo pole with two containers tied on each side) to bring Ganga jal from holy rivers to their local Shiva temples. This act symbolizes self-sacrifice and penance.
During the month of Sawan, the spiritual energy in Banaras intensifies. With Kashi Vishwanath—one of the 12 Jyotirlingas—located here, Kanwariyas believe that offering Ganga water in Banaras brings immense blessings, fulfills desires, and washes away sins.
Why Banaras Holds a Special Place for Kanwariyas
Banaras isn’t just any destination—it’s Shiva’s own city, where every street chants his name and every corner holds sacred significance. Here’s why Banaras becomes the ultimate goal for Kanwariyas during Sawan:
1. Home to Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. For Kanwariyas, offering Ganga jal to the Jyotirlinga is the ultimate act of devotion. It’s believed that one darshan here can break the cycle of rebirth.
2. Ganga River’s Spiritual Importance
In Banaras, the Ganga is not just a river—she is Maa Ganga, the divine mother. Kanwariyas collect jal from sacred ghats like Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Panchganga Ghat with utmost reverence.
3. Spiritual Atmosphere That Uplifts
During Sawan, Banaras vibrates with bhajans, chants, and auras of collective devotion. This spiritually charged atmosphere motivates even the tired Kanwariya to keep moving forward.
The Journey: From Hardship to Harmony
Walking for miles under the sun and rain, barefoot and fasting—this is no easy task. Yet, every Kanwariya you meet has only one thing on their lips: “Har Har Mahadev!”
A. Discipline Is the Dharma
Kanwariyas follow strict rules—no alcohol, no non-veg food, celibacy, and silence in many cases. This intense self-discipline brings mental clarity and spiritual growth.
B. Community & Brotherhood
From strangers sharing food to locals offering shelter, the Kanwar Yatra creates a deep sense of community and brotherhood. It doesn’t matter who you are—everyone is united under Shiva’s name.
C. Devotion That Moves Mountains
Even those with health issues or disabilities join the yatra. Why? Because their faith is stronger than their pain. And when they finally reach Banaras, tears of joy and surrender are common at the temple doors.
The Saffron-Washed Streets of Banaras
If you visit Banaras during Sawan, you’ll witness something truly mesmerizing: a sea of orange and saffron, loud chants of “Bhole Baba ki Jai,” and a fragrance of incense blending with rain-soaked streets.
Key Highlights You’ll See:
Shivirs (camps) set up with free food, first-aid, and resting areas.
Local temples offering free darshan and aarti to Kanwariyas.
Devotional music playing across the ghats.
Volunteers washing feet and massaging shoulders of exhausted pilgrims.
It’s a reminder that Banaras doesn’t just host Kanwariyas—it celebrates them.
Spiritual Significance of the Kanwar in Sawan
The month of Sawan is considered highly auspicious for Lord Shiva worship because it is believed that it was during this time that Lord Shiva drank the Halahala poison during Samudra Manthan. Offering Ganga jal during this month pleases Shiva the most.
Carrying the Kanwar to Kashi Vishwanath becomes symbolic of:
Renouncing ego and desires
Purifying the soul
Surrendering to divine will
A Modern-Day Pilgrimage That Stays Rooted in Faith
Despite modernization, the Kanwar Yatra to Banaras has only grown in numbers. Youths with Bluetooth speakers blasting bhajans, social media updates with “#HarHarMahadev,” and people from all walks of life participate—keeping the core tradition intact while blending it with today’s expressions.
Some even cycle or run all the way to Banaras, driven not by fame but faith.
Why This Journey Is More Relevant Than Ever
In today’s chaotic world of stress, social pressure, and material goals, the Kanwar Yatra offers:
Digital Detox – A chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with self.
Mental Healing – Through meditation, chanting, and simplicity.
Spiritual Awakening – By shifting focus from the outside world to the inner one.
This is why Kanwariyas continue to flock to Banaras during Sawan, year after year—because it gives them peace that nothing else does.
Practical Tips for First-Time Kanwariyas Coming to Banaras
If you’re planning to join the yatra or visit Banaras during Sawan:
Start preparing physically weeks before.
Carry medical essentials and waterproof gear.
Be respectful of local customs and fellow devotees.
Keep your heart full of devotion—Shiva sees the effort, not the distance.
Final Thoughts: Sawan in Banaras Is Not Just a Season – It’s a Feeling
The monsoon winds, the sacred chants, the spiritual discipline, and the overwhelming love for Lord Shiva—Sawan in Banaras is a divine experience that words can barely capture.
For Kanwariyas, it’s a pilgrimage that cleanses the soul. For Banaras, it’s a spiritual reunion with its most devoted children.
So if you ever wonder why Kanwariyas flock to Banaras during Sawan, remember—it’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey of devotion and discipline that leads them to their beloved Mahadev.
Har Har Mahadev!