Devotion Escalates: ‘Bam-Bam Bhole’ reverberates alongside the bells of Shiva Temples

A unique spectacle of devotion adorns temples across the state, with the Yogi govt’s fool proof arrangements

Markets abuzz with Shiva devotees, grand welcome for Kanwariyas at service camps set up at various places

Lucknow, August 2026 : With the commencement of the Kanwar Yatra, the ringing of bells in Shiva temples and chants of “Har Har Mahadev” have filled the entire atmosphere with spirituality. Shiva devotees, carrying Gangajal from pilgrimage sites such as Haridwar, Kachhla Ghat, and Gangotri, are proceeding on foot, running, and carrying decorated Kalash towards their respective Shiva temples. This journey is not merely a religious ritual but has become a living example of Sanatan faith, discipline, and social harmony. The temples are beautifully decorated, and the temple premises resonate with the sound of bells and chants of “Bam-Bam Bhole.”

The Shiva temples across the state, whether Kashi Vishwanath, Nageshwarnath in Ayodhya, or ancient Shiva temples in small towns, reverberate every year during Sawan with the chants of Kanwariyas, and this year is no different. The arrangements made by the administration, the enthusiasm of traders, and the unwavering devotion of devotees have together transformed the Kanwar Yatra into not only the biggest festival of religious faith but also a symbol of social unity, discipline, and cultural pride.

Although the form of the Kanwar Yatra may have evolved with changing times, the devotees’ dedication towards Lord Shiva remains as unwavering and vibrant as ever. This is why Shiva devotees are thronging both large and small temples in Ayodhya, Kashi, Prayagraj, Meerut, Saharanpur, and elsewhere.

On the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a new dialogue model is being implemented simultaneously this time across the entire Bareilly Zone and nine districts to ensure that the Kanwar Yatra remains safe and well-organized. Under this model, the police administration is directly engaging with the public and religious leaders on 19 points to ensure that no rumors or anti-social elements get an opportunity to disrupt the yatra.

Along with road safety, social media is also being closely monitored. On the first Monday of Sawan, a massive contingent of Kanwariyas will depart for Haridwar and Kachhla Ghat, with thousands of Shiva devotees participating. The government is also ensuring the provision of rest stops, street lighting, and service camps along the Kanwar routes so that the journey can continue uninterrupted even during the night.

With the arrival of the Kanwar Yatra, markets across the state, including Meerut, have turned saffron-clad. T-shirts featuring attractive Mahadev slogans have emerged as the first choice among the youth, with messages such as “Kaal Uska Kya Kare, Jo Bhakt Ho Mahakal Ka” becoming a major attraction.

Along with T-shirts priced between Rs 80 and Rs 500, the sale of saffron gamchas, waterproof mobile covers, and half pants has also increased significantly. In addition, there has been a sharp rise in demand for decorative steel Kalash used for Jalabhishek and other puja materials.

This grand festival of faith also provides a fresh boost to business activity. According to trade estimates, this year’s Kanwar Yatra is expected to strengthen an economy worth around Rs 1,500 crore across the state, while Meerut alone is expected to witness business worth nearly Rs 300 crore. Traders have stated that business activity is expected to gain further momentum once the yatra gathers pace.