The Kanwar Yatra officially commences on the first day (*Pratipada*) of the dark fortnight (*Krishna Paksha*) of the month of Shravan. Devotees of Lord Shiva eagerly await this pilgrimage all year round and begin preparations—such as readying themselves to carry the *Kanwar* on their shoulders—months in advance. Haridwar is the primary hub for this pilgrimage in North India; every year, millions of devotees carry the *Kanwar* on their shoulders and undertake the journey to please Lord Bholenath and fulfill their vows. According to religious scriptures, Lord Bholenath is easily pleased by the act of carrying the *Kanwar* and grants the devotee's heart's desires. Hindu scriptures outline specific rules for undertaking this pilgrimage; failing to observe these rules renders the journey fruitless.

Pandit Shridhar Shastri of Haridwar explains to *Local 18* that the Kanwar Yatra begins on the first day of the dark fortnight of Shravan and continues until the thirteenth day (*Trayodashi*). Due to the long distance involved, some devotees begin their journey even before the month of Shravan officially starts. Haridwar serves as the main center for this pilgrimage in North India. Adhering to specific rules is crucial when undertaking the *Kanwar* pilgrimage. According to Pandit Shridhar Shastri, the Kanwar Yatra is a highly sacred undertaking. When commencing this holy pilgrimage from a sacred site, it is essential to be pure in both body and mind.

**Prohibited Practices**
Pandit Shridhar Shastri emphasizes that one must harbor pure devotion and sincere faith in Lord Shiva while undertaking the pilgrimage. Devotees must observe a *Sattvic* (pure and wholesome) lifestyle starting two days prior to the journey. Consumption of *Tamasic* (heavy, dulling) and non-vegetarian food must be completely avoided. One should not harbor ill will or negative thoughts towards anyone during the journey and must refrain from wrongful actions or feelings of malice. Throughout the pilgrimage, the devotee must remain pure in body, speech, and mind.

Care must also be taken not to use abusive language or speak inappropriately to any passerby or fellow *Kanwariya* (pilgrim) during the journey. If a Shiva devotee undertaking the Kanwar Yatra fails to observe these guidelines, they reap no spiritual merit from the pilgrimage; instead, they incur a spiritual fault.

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