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The Kanwar Yatra has commenced. Kanwariyas (pilgrims) often engage in acts of negligence that can render the *Kanwar* ritually impure (*khandit*), thereby preventing the successful completion of their pilgrimage. If Shiva devotees wish to complete their Kanwar Yatra in a state of ritual purity, this report outlines the specific guidelines they must observe—both before and after lifting the *Kanwar*—to ensure a successful and sacred journey.

**Rules from Collecting to Offering the Holy Water**
The Kanwar Yatra is fundamentally a journey undertaken with purity of conduct. Millions of Shiva devotees head towards Haridwar for the Yatra and to collect *Gangajal* (holy water from the Ganges). There, they bathe in the river, collect the holy water, and set out for their respective destinations. However, there are essential rules to be followed even while collecting the *Gangajal*.

Additionally, pilgrims must exercise caution throughout the journey to ensure the *Kanwar* remains ritually intact. They must also be particularly mindful of their dietary choices during the pilgrimage. Pandit Somprakash Shastri explains the specific items and dietary considerations involved.

**Importance of Departing During an Auspicious Time (*Shubh Muhurat*)**
Acharya Somprakash Shastri explained that the journey should begin during an auspicious time (*muhurat*) and with purity of conduct at the onset of the month of Shravan. One should aim to carry minimal luggage and depart during an auspicious astrological alignment (*lagna*). There are specific variations to this practice: some pilgrims collect the holy water from Haridwar, others from Gomukh, Gangotri, or even Badrinath. They plan their journey and pace themselves according to the distance and time required to transport the water from their chosen source. Let us begin with Haridwar: when *Kanwariyas* (pilgrims) set out with the holy water, they do so after a morning bath and the performance of their daily prayers and rituals (*Sandhya-Vandan*). They fill their *Kanwar* (carrying pole) with water, worship it, and—with their minds focused entirely on Lord Shiva—begin their journey.

**Mindful of Dietary Choices**
Pandit ji notes that one must also be mindful of certain things along the route. Most importantly, a *Kanwariya* should not consume food offered by others. While camps are indeed set up to provide *Prasad* (sanctified food), *Kanwariyas* should try to avoid them; it is better to consume food purchased with one's own money during the pilgrimage. Furthermore, having a companion along helps the *Kanwariya* maintain the necessary purity of conduct throughout the journey. If a *Kanwariya* happens to relieve themselves (excrete waste), they must bathe; only after bathing do they resume carrying the holy water and continue toward their destination.

Many *Kanwariyas* rush when offering the water. I advise that one should aim to offer the water properly over a span of about two and a half hours. Offer it to Lord Shiva slowly and reverently; one should not simply splash the water on and consider the task complete.

**Abstain from Intoxicants**
It is also crucial to note that the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, *bidis*, cigarettes, and similar substances is strictly prohibited. Many *Kanwariyas* argue that Lord Shiva himself consumed *Bhang* and *Dhatura*; however, you are not Lord Shiva—you are a devotee of Lord Shiva. You are carrying the holy water as a sacred offering. It is far better to abstain from habits like smoking cigarettes or consuming *Bhang* while undertaking this pilgrimage. Doing so allows the devotee to remain closer to Lord Shiva.

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