Stating that no festival, celebration, or ‘sadhana’ is complete without “self-discipline”, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday urged devotees of Shiva to contribute to the successful conduct of the Kanwar Yatra by practising self-discipline and maintaining faith. Speaking to mediapersons in Lucknow, Adityanath said, “The Kanwar Yatra during the month of Shravan is renowned worldwide. During this period, Shiva devotees from across the country, including North India, show their devotion to Lord Shiva by performing ‘jalabhishek’ at Shiva temples. Both the Central and state governments have made extensive arrangements to ensure the safety, convenience, and smooth conduct of the Kanwar Yatra for the devotees.” “No festival, celebration, or sadhana is complete without self-discipline. To ensure smooth and safe journey, we must be devoted not only internally but also externally. Shivo Bhutva Shivam Yajet (to worship Shiva, first become Shiva),” Adityanath said without elaborating. The CM’s remarks come in the wake of a string of incidents of violence involving kanwariyas since the yatra began. A mob vandalised a government vehicle after it allegedly hit one of the kanwariyas in Ghaziabad on Monday. On Saturday night, kanwariyas blocked a stretch of the Delhi-Meerut Expressway for around 30 minutes, thrashed the driver and vandalised the vehicle, alleging that their kanwar (holy pot) was desecrated. This led to the imposition of fresh traffic curbs on the expressway. Meanwhile, the CM said that various sections of society and the government are working diligently for the pilgrims. “The government is making extensive efforts, including enhanced patrolling, cleanliness measures, and health camps. And, provisions have been made for surveillance and showering of flowers from drones and helicopters as needed,” the CM said, urging kanwariyas to not only enjoy the 'yatra' but also contribute to make it a success. The Kanwar Yatra that began on July 22 ends on August 6. During this period, a large number of devotees travel from various places with 'kanwars' carrying holy water from the Ganga to perform 'jalabhishek' of Shivlings during the Hindu calendar month of 'Shravan'.
