Thousands of Shiva Devotees Join Kanwar Yatra on Final Monday of Sawan in Koderma

A sea of devotees gathered at Jharna Kund in Jhumri Telaiya on Monday on the occasion of the fourth and final Monday of the holy month of Sawan. Thousands of Shiva devotees collected sacred water from the north-flowing river at Jharna Kund and took part in a grand Kanwar pilgrimage to Dhwajadhari Dham in Koderma.

The devotees covered nearly 14 km on foot, passing through forest routes and the Ranchi-Patna National Highway before reaching Dhwajadhari Dham. After reaching the temple, the devotees climbed 777 steps to the top of Dhwajadhari Hill and offered the sacred water to Lord Shiva. They also prayed for peace, prosperity and fulfilment of their wishes.

The Kanwariyas travelled to the beats of devotional music, chanting “Bol Bam” and “Har Har Mahadev” throughout the journey. The historic Kanwar Yatra has been organised by Shri Ram Sankirtan Mandal for the past 26 years and holds special religious significance for devotees on the final Monday of Sawan.

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According to local religious belief, Kadram Rishi, believed to be the son of Lord Brahma, once performed penance dedicated to Lord Shiva at the top of Dhwajadhari Hill. It is believed that pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva blessed him with a flag and trident. Since then, devotees have followed the tradition of offering water, flags and tridents at the shrine.

Considering the large turnout, the district administration made elaborate security arrangements along the route. Police personnel and magistrates were deployed at 43 locations to regulate the crowd and maintain law and order during the 14-km pilgrimage.

Several service camps were also set up along the route to assist the devotees. RJD leader Subhas Yadav arranged lemon water, sherbet and refreshments for the Kanwariyas, providing relief to pilgrims during the long journey.

After reaching Dhwajadhari Dham, devotees climbed the 777 steps and performed Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva. The entire area reverberated with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bol Bam”, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

The massive participation of devotees turned the final Monday of Sawan into a grand religious celebration in Koderma.