Devotees and Kanwariyas in large numbers thronged famous Shiva shrines across Odisha to offer their obeisance to Lord Shiva on the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan (Sawan) today.
The atmosphere across the Shiv temples filled with devotion and enthusiasm as devotees made beeline since the wee hour to offer milk, water and 'bel' leaves to the almighty on the auspicious occasion.
The saffron-clad kanwariyas, who collected water from different rivers and walked miles by holding the Bahungis (slings each with two water-full pots hanging on both sides) with the chanting of ‘Bol Bom, Hare Hare Bom’, reached Shive temples and poured the holy water on Shiva Lingas.
“I brought water from Gadagadia Ghat in Cuttack to pour water at Lokanath temple in Puri. I prayed Lord Shiva for the wellbeing of my son,” said a kanwariya.
As per the belief, wishes get fulfilled by offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Shravan Somvars. Devotees also observed fast to seek blessings of the god.
It is worthwhile to mention here that a rare coincidence has taken place this year as the holy Shravan month will be observed for 59 days, from July 4 to August 31. The month of Shravan will have an extra month for ‘Joda Masa’.