"Self-discipline important to complete Kawar Yatra", says UP CM Yogi Adityanath, underlines preparations done by state

Lucknow: A large number of devotees across the nation began their Kanwar Yatra on July 22 on the occasion of the first Monday of 'Sawan'.
Speaking to ANI, Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, said that Lord Shiva's auspicious month of Sawan, known to the entire world, has started in the country.
"Lord Shiva's auspicious month of Sawan has already commenced. The Kanwar Yatra of Sawan month is known to the entire world. The devotees of Lord Shiva are performing Jalabhishek at Shiva Mandir across the country," he said.
The Chief Minister said that proper arrangements have been made by the state and central government to make sure the devotees do not face any issues. He also appealed to the devotees to ensure self-discipline.
"For their safe and secure Yatra, proper arrangements have been made by the state and the central government so that no devotee faces any issue. The blessings of Lord Shiva are always upon us. None of this is possible without self-discipline. To complete this journey, one needs to have dedication and discipline in them," CM Yogi Adityanath said.
"We are seeing that not only the government but the people from different societies are in the Yatra with their utmost faith in Lord Shiva. The government has made arrangements for drones, cameras, and security for all the devotees. Arrangements for the stay and food have also been made for them. I appeal to the devotees to enjoy the journey with dedication and complete their Kanwar Yatra. I pray for a safe journey for all the devotees," he added.
The sacred month of Sawan typically falls between July and August and marks a period of worship, fasting, and pilgrimage dedicated to the deity of destruction and transformation.
Sawan holds a special place in Hindu mythology as the month when Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe from its toxic effects. Devotees undertake fasting and offer prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during this period. The cooling rains of Sawan symbolise Shiva's compassion and benevolence.
During Sawan, devotees typically observe fasts on Mondays, known as Shravan Somvar, which are considered auspicious.
Many choose to abstain from consuming grains, eating only fruits, milk, and specific foods permissible during fasting. The chanting of Shiva mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and performing Rudrabhishek (ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam) are common practices observed with fervour across households and temples.