Kanwad Yatris from Gurugram carry 1,000-kg golden Shiva Kanwad on wheels in Haridwar; covers 250 km, carries 40 litres of Gangajal

NEW DELHI: Kanwad Yatris from Gurgaon are carrying an enormous 800-1,000 kg golden Shiva Kanwad on wheels during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The specially designed Kanwad, created in Sonipat, carries 40 litres of sacred Gangajal and has become a center of attention along the pilgrimage route.The annual Kanwar Yatra began on July 10, during which devotees collect holy water from rivers and transport it to Lord Shiva temples, covering hundreds of kilometers while observing fasts and performing rituals."This is a unique Kanwad, made in Sonipat, weighing around 800-1,000 kgs and holding about 40 litres of Gangajal. People are appreciating its grandeur. We will cover nearly 250 kilometres with it, showcasing our devotion to Lord Shiva," said Sonu Rana, one of the Kanwariyas.The Uttarakhand State government has initiated "Operation Kalanemi" to combat individuals who impersonate Sanatanis and damage its reputation."Those who are deceiving people here, hiding their identity, hurting faith and belief, harming Sanatan, such people will be identified, a campaign will be run against such people, and those who are hurting religion and faith by hiding their reality will be caught, action will be taken against them," Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami told reporters.Chief minister Dhami has issued strict instructions to officials regarding Operation Kalanemi, targeting those who deceive people and hurt sentiments in the name of Sanatan Dharma in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.The CM expressed concern about numerous cases where anti-social elements, disguised as saints, have cheated people, particularly women. These activities not only hurt religious sentiments but also damage the image of social harmony and Sanatan tradition.Dhami drew a parallel between these imposters and the demon Kalanemi, who had attempted to deceive by disguising himself as a saint. He noted that many such "Kalanemi" are currently active in society, committing crimes under religious pretenses.