Munger, August 9: The world-renowned Shravan Mela in Bihar is witnessing an overwhelming surge of devotion. Pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, are showcasing their unique expressions of faith. Some are undertaking long journeys of hundreds of kilometers to reach Baba Baidyanath’s shrine, while others are creatively transforming their kanwars into representations of Lord Shiva. These impressive and large kanwars not only attract the attention of devotees but also enhance the grandeur of the festival.
Devotees from various parts of the country are making this pilgrimage memorable through their creativity and devotion. Local residents and fellow pilgrims gather to witness these extraordinary kanwars along the route. Each day, the faith of the Kanwariyas heading towards Baba Baidyanath Dham reveals new and unique forms of devotion.
On the Kachhi Kanwariya Path in Munger, the large and striking kanwars brought by devotees from different states have become a topic of discussion. Some kanwars are adorned with representations of the 12 Jyotirlingas, while others have transformed into grand depictions of Baba Bholenath. A group of around 40 devotees from Kolkata is carrying a 250-kilogram kanwar shaped like the statue of Baba Bhutnath towards Baba Dham. This kanwar, decorated in the form of Mahadev, showcases a stunning blend of intricate designs and religious symbols.
Due to its weight, the group takes turns carrying the kanwar on their shoulders. Passersby often stop to admire it. Similarly, another group of about 60 Shiva devotees from Kolkata is transporting a 110-kilogram statue of Baba Bholenath in the form of a kanwar from Sultan Ganj to Baba Dham. Crafted from plaster of Paris, foam, fabric, and decorative materials, this kanwar took nearly two months to create. Four Kanwariyas carry it together, taking turns to complete their journey.
Meanwhile, a 250-member team from the Shiv Shakti Kanwariya Sangh in Katni, Madhya Pradesh, is also drawing attention with their impressive 51-foot kanwar, adorned with attractive replicas of the 12 Jyotirlingas. According to the members, they have been consistently visiting Baba Baidyanath’s shrine for the past 25 years. To commemorate this milestone, they created a special 51-foot kanwar this year.
The members shared that it took about a month to prepare this massive kanwar. Wherever this group goes along the Kachhi Kanwariya Path, devotees pause to admire and photograph it. The atmosphere is filled with chants of “Bol Bam” and “Har Har Mahadev,” creating a divine ambiance. The Kanwariyas express that this journey is not merely a tradition of carrying Ganga water from Sultan Ganj for Baba Baidyanath’s worship; it symbolizes faith, resolve, and dedication. Despite the heavy kanwars, the enthusiasm of the Shiva devotees remains undiminished.
They assert that their devotion to Baba Bholenath makes the weight of the kanwar and the long journey seem insignificant. The unique kanwar journeys at the Shravan Mela once again demonstrate that challenges on the path of faith cannot dampen the spirits of the devotees. Whether it’s a 250-kilogram kanwar, a 110-kilogram statue of Bholenath, or a 51-foot kanwar adorned with Jyotirlingas, all share a common goal: to reach Baba Baidyanath’s shrine and offer Ganga water.
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