Kanpur: Thousands of devotees thronged prominent Lord Shiv temples in Kanpur from the early hours to offer prayers and perform Jalabhishek as the holy month of Shrawan began on Thursday.The chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Mahadev” echoed through temples as devotees sought Lord Shiv’s blessings on the auspicious first day of the sacred month. The largest congregation was witnessed at the historic Anandeshwar Temple in Parmat, where long queues had formed well before dawn. After taking a holy dip in the Ganga, devotees reached the temple to participate in the Mangala Aarti before performing Jalabhishek of the Shivling with Ganga water and milk.The Shivling was decorated with flowers, sandalwood paste, bael leaves, bael fruit, bhang and dhatura, all considered sacred offerings to Lord Shiv. Several devotees also organised Rudrabhishek, reciting the Shiv Chalisa and singing devotional hymns and aarti.To manage the heavy rush, the temple administration made elaborate arrangements. Barricades were installed to regulate the movement of devotees, while separate queues were created for men and women. Volunteers and a sizeable police force remained deployed throughout the day to maintain order and assist pilgrims.According to Hindu belief, offering Jalabhishek during the month of Shrawan brings prosperity and fulfils devotees’ wishes. Many worshippers also observe the tradition of visiting Shiv temples every day throughout the month.A devotee, Dharmendra Tripathi, who visited Anandeshwar Temple, said worshipping during Shrawan brings peace and spiritual fulfilment. “The atmosphere in the temple is filled with positive energy, and one feels truly blessed after offering prayers to Lord Shiv,” he said.Religious celebrations were also held at Parmeshwar Dham Jangleshwar Mahadev Ashram in Bithoor, where members of the Mangalamukhi Kinnar community offered prayers to a giant Shivling and organised a bhandara for devotees.The programme was held under the leadership of Mahalakshmi Nandgiri Mangalamukhi Mannat Maa of the Panchdash Naam Juna Akhara. Devotees from different parts of the city participated in the worship and community feast, marking the beginning of the sacred month with devotion and service.With the commencement of Shravan, Shiva temples across Kanpur are expected to witness a steady stream of devotees throughout the month, particularly on Mondays, which are considered especially auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva.
