Bageshwar, August 3: The sacred town of Bageshwar, often referred to as the Kashi of Kumaon, has transformed into a spiritual hub with the commencement of the Kanwar Yatra. Hundreds of devotees, arriving from Garud, gathered at Markandey Ghat to collect holy water from the Saryu River, embarking on a 22-kilometer trek to the Chakreshwar Mahadev Temple.
Under the guidance of Sant Niranjan Maharaj, the enthusiasm of the Kanwariyas was palpable. Chanting “Har Har Mahadev,” the group set off towards Chakreshwar Dham.
One devotee shared, “This is a 12-year commitment under our Maharaj Niranjan. We will carry water from the Saryu River to perform water offerings at Chakreshwar Mahadev Temple for 12 years. Tomorrow marks the third Monday of Sawan, a day we dedicate to this ritual.”
He added, “First, we will offer water at Baba Bageshwar, followed by offerings at the Shiva Temple in Baijnath. Tomorrow morning, we will perform the water offering at Chakreshwar Mahadev, accompanied by Rudrabhishek.”
Another devotee mentioned that the Chakreshwar Temple is nestled between the Gomti River and the valley. “We initiated this Kanwar Yatra in 2018. All devotees will carry water, and in the evening, we will perform the water offering in Baijnath, followed by the offering at Chakreshwar. There will also be an evening of devotional songs and a community feast. On Monday, we will offer water to Bholenath.”
A different Kanwariya provided further details about the program: “The water offering will take place at 4 AM tomorrow. We collect Ganga water from the Saryu River. First, we will offer water to Bageshwar Ji, then to Baba Baijnath Ji, and finally reach Chakreshwar Mahadev for the morning offering. In the evening, we will have bhajan-kirtan and a community feast.”
Accompanying the Kanwariyas are drum players and devotional music groups. Local residents welcomed the pilgrims along the route, offering refreshments. Authorities have ensured robust security and health arrangements along the pilgrimage path.
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