Kavad Yatra: An Annual Pilgrimage of Lord Shiva’s Devotees – Types and Significance

Kawad Yatra is an annual pilgrimage of Lord Shiva's devotees, primarily undertaken in the month of Shravan. This pilgrimage is mainly conducted on a large scale in North India, but now it has expanded to Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Gujarat, and even South India.

‘What is a Kawad?’

A Kawad is a sling or structure made from bamboo. At both ends, two pots are attached, filled with holy water. Devotees carry this Kawad on their shoulders and walk hundreds of kilometers. During this journey, they do not use any vehicles and walk barefoot. Many undertake this pilgrimage with fasting, singing hymns, and meditation. The Kawad Yatra is a traditional pilgrimage of Lord Shiva's devotees. In this, devotees bring water from holy rivers, especially the Ganges, and offer it to the Shiva Lingam. This pilgrimage is particularly undertaken in the month of Shravan, which is considered extremely sacred for Lord Shankar. 'Kawad' means a sling made from bamboo, with pots of water hanging on both sides. Devotees carry it on their shoulders. These devotees are called Kawadiyas or Kawadiyas. They walk many kilometers, sometimes even hundreds of kilometers!

Let's learn about the various types of Kawad Yatra.

Simple Kawad – which means walking peacefully. Dak Kawad – running to carry water, a fast journey. Bullet or vehicle Kawad - in this, some devotees also go on motorcycles. Barfani Kawad – in the Himalayas or cold regions. Symbolic Kawad – a symbolic journey with local water.