Uttar Pradesh: 500 women lead ‘historic’ Kanwar Yatra

LUCKNOW: Women devotees donning yellow and red attire from all walks of life undertook UP's first women's Kanwar yatra on Sunday. More than 500 women walked almost 3 kms chanting 'Har Har Mahadev', carrying the auspicious bamboo pole containing holy Ganga water, tied at opposite ends.Gangajal was distributed among devotees by the Vishwamangala Committee which organised the yatra in the city. The heat failed to beat the enthusiasm of the devotees, who didn't stop even to drink water.Commencing from Mankameshwar Temple, Daliganj, most women walked barefoot in the heat and under the sun to Khatu Shyam Temple, Hasanganj, their children tagging along. Upholding the saffron flags, Lord Shiva devotees walked behind the chariot with children dressed as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Parvati. The women carrying the poles decorated them with colourful threads and clothes and shared them so everyone felt included. Mona (50) participated in the yatra in a wheelchair and said, "I had to be part of this historic yatra and I couldn't let my health issues stop me. I am a Lord Shiva devotee and have come here along with my sisters."Savita Yadav (32), who walked barefoot along with her two daughters, said, "I had always wanted to take part in Kanwar and also to introduce my daughters to the traditions of Sanatan Dharma. I have been a Lord Shiva devotee since my childhood, and want my children to follow in these footsteps." Yatra convener Priyanka Shukla said, "Observing the Shravan month, women of the city gathered and undertook the first women's Kanwar Yatra of the state. We are very pleased with the huge outturn. Our committee will organise yatra in other cities as well."