Haridwar: In light of the Kanwar Mela, the Haridwar district administration has issued an order to temporarily close all schools and Anganwadi centers from July 10th to 17th. District Magistrate Dheeraj Garbyal confirmed this decision, stating, "Considering the Kanwar Mela, it has been decided by the district administration to suspend classes for students from grades 1 to 12, as well as the functioning of Anganwadi centers, during the period from July 10th to 17th."

The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage undertaken by devotees of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims, known as Kanwariyas, travel to sacred destinations such as Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand, as well as Sultanganj in Bihar, to collect holy water from the River Ganga. This water is then used to perform worship rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kanwar Yatra holds great significance during the month of Sawan, as devotees collect water from revered rivers and store it in small mud pots called Kanwars. Clad in saffron attire, the devotees carry these pots of holy water on foot and visit temples devoted to Lord Shiva.

Sawan, also known as Shravan, is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and holds immense sanctity among Hindus. Each Monday during this month is considered highly auspicious for fasting and seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Kanwar Mela is a religious pilgrimage and cultural festival celebrated with great fervor in Uttarakhand, a state in northern India. It takes place during the Hindu month of Shravan (July-August) and attracts millions of devotees, primarily young men known as Kanwariyas. The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Kanwariyas undertake a long and arduous journey to collect holy water from the sacred rivers of Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Gangotri. They carry colorful decorated poles called kanwars on their shoulders, symbolizing their devotion to Lord Shiva. The pilgrimage routes are filled with an atmosphere of devotion and enthusiasm as devotees chant religious hymns and songs, while some even dance along the way. The Kanwar Mela in Uttarakhand is not only a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza, with various fairs, exhibitions, and cultural performances taking place throughout the region. It serves as a significant platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand and strengthening the spiritual bond among the participants.

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