Uttarkashi: Deep faith can be seen at Gangotri Dham, where Shiva devotees are arriving in large numbers to collect water from the holy Ganges. Despite snow-covered paths and freezing temperatures, pilgrims are determined to carry Ganga water back to their temples for Mahashivratri Jalabhishek.
Traditionally, millions of Kanwariyas visit Gangotri during the monsoon season for Sawan Shivratri, but this year, devotees are arriving even in the month of Falgun Shivratri. This unusual winter influx has given wings to the pilgrimage, creating excitement among locals and boosting religious tourism in Uttarkashi district.
Pilgrims from across states
Devotees from Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are reaching Gangotri Dham, filling their Kanwars with Ganga water, and departing on foot or by post to their hometowns. They will perform Jalabhishek on Shivalingas in their temples during Mahashivratri.
One such devotee from Delhi shared his experience. He said that due to heavy snowfall, pilgrims had to walk beyond Dharali, where the Bhagirathi River was frozen at many places. Collecting water from between the stones, he and his friends will walk nearly 510 km to reach home and perform Jalabhishek at their local temple.
Gangotri is currently covered in a thick blanket of snow
The world-famous Gangotri shrine, dedicated to Mother Ganga, is currently covered in a thick blanket of snow. Temperatures remain below freezing, and snowfall continues as the weather changes. Even in these harsh conditions, devotees are taking holy dips in the icy waters of the Ganges, showing their unwavering faith.
Priests expressed joy at the arrival of pilgrims
Mahant Ajay Puri of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple expressed joy at the arrival of pilgrims. He said this is the first time Kanwariyas from across the country and even abroad are carrying Ganga water from Gangotri for Mahashivratri. According to him, this is a positive sign for winter travel in Uttarkashi. He urged the government and administration to encourage the Kanwar Yatra during winter as well, so that local people can remain employed throughout the year.
Local merchants and residents are equally delighted, as the influx of pilgrims has created an atmosphere of excitement and economic activity. Shops, lodges, and transport services are benefiting from the unexpected rise in visitors.