Kashi Vishwanath Dham Set for Grand Shravan Celebrations Starting July 14; Baba Vishwanath to Adorn ‘Neelkanth’ Form on First Monday
Image via IANS
Varanasi —The holy month of Shravan is set to begin with a spiritual and celebratory high on Monday, July 14, as thousands of devotees from across India and abroad will gather at Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi for the first Shravan Somvar (Monday). The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has announced elaborate arrangements to ensure a safe, smooth, and divine experience for the devotees.
Baba Vishwanath to Appear in Neelkanth Form
According to Vishwabhushan Mishra, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust, the processional idol of Lord Shiva (Baba Vishwanath) will be specially adorned in the form of 'Neelkanth' on the first Monday of Shravan.
Throughout the month, every Monday will see Baba Vishwanath decorated in a new divine form, with a special presentation also planned for the full moon day.
“Each Monday will bring a new divine darshan for devotees,” said Mishra. “It’s a unique opportunity for spiritual connection.”
Red Carpet Welcome for Kanwariyas and Devotees
To welcome devotees and Kanwariyas, the Yogi government is going all out—floral showers, a red carpet, and a streamlined entry system are just a few highlights.
- Zig-zag barricades have been installed inside the temple to regulate movement.
- German hangars and extra sheds will offer protection from rain and heat.
- Glucose water, ORS packets, and drinking water will be distributed throughout the day.
- A special counter for jaggery (gur) will help devotees stay energised during long waits.
Medical and Emergency Preparedness
Given the expected high footfall, the temple complex and surrounding areas have been equipped with robust medical support:
- Five medical teams stationed at key points
- Two ambulances, one equipped with advanced life support systems
- A ‘Lost and Found’ helpdesk with multilingual staff to assist visitors
High-Tech Live Broadcast and Global Streaming
For those unable to visit in person, the rituals inside the sanctum sanctorum will be broadcast live on:
- LED screens across the temple premises
- Key locations like Varanasi railway station, Godowlia crossing, and river ghats
- YouTube, making it accessible for global devotees
Massive Security Deployment and Crowd Control
To manage the large crowds and ensure safety, Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal has confirmed extensive arrangements:
- One lane on Prayagraj–Varanasi road dedicated exclusively for Kanwariyas
- 10 Quick Response Teams (QRTs) on duty 24x7
- 200 CCTV cameras and eight drones monitoring every movement
- 1,500+ police personnel deployed
- Cycle patrols and plainclothes officers for added vigilance
“We are committed to ensuring a secure and spiritually uplifting experience for all visitors,” said Commissioner Agrawal.
Significance of Shravan and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Shravan month, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is considered highly auspicious in the Hindu calendar. Devotees undertake Kanwar Yatra, carry holy Ganga water, and perform ‘Jalabhishek’ (ritual water offering) on Shivlingas.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, sees an enormous surge of pilgrims during this time. The newly-redeveloped Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has improved infrastructure and expanded visitor capacity, making it a spiritual and architectural marvel.
Final Thoughts
With the first Shravan Somvar falling on July 14, the holy city of Varanasi is bracing for an influx of faith and festivity. The Uttar Pradesh government’s meticulous arrangements, combined with modern technology and cultural grandeur, promise a divine experience for all devotees.
Whether you're arriving in person or tuning in from across the globe, the sight of Baba Vishwanath in Neelkanth form is set to be a deeply spiritual and memorable moment.