The 12-day long annual Kanwar Yatra began today in different parts of the country. Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh governments have made elaborate arrangements to manage huge rush of pilgrims.
The Kanwar Yatra will pass through Delhi, Meerut, Saharanpur, Ghaziabad, Shamli and Bhagpat districts in Uttar Pradesh. Devotees participating in the yatra will collect the sacred water from the river Ganga. Devotees chant slogans in praise of Lord Shiv and sing bhajans and kirtans while taking part in the yatra.
While most of the people cover this yatra on foot, some opt for personal vehicles in case they are not able to walk long distances. Many NGOs also come forward to assist the kanwars in their pilgrimage at various points along the way to the destination, providing makeshift accommodation, food, water and tea. In Uttarakhand, a large number of Kanwariyas are expected to visit the state this year. The State government has completed all preparations for the yatra.
