The ancient name of Haridwar translates to Har Dwar, meaning the gateway to Lord Shiva. This holy city houses numerous revered shrines and ancient sites dedicated to Mahadev, which find detailed mentions in sacred texts. During the holy month of Sawan, the spiritual significance of these temples, especially Lord Shiva's in-laws' abode, multiplies manifold as worshippers seek divine blessings.
Marking the final Monday of the sacred month of Sawan, temples dedicated to Lord Shiva witnessed an influx of devotees starting early in the morning. Worshippers carrying pots of holy Ganges water stood in long, patient queues waiting for their turn to offer prayers. A similar vibrant atmosphere was witnessed in the ancient locality of Kankhal in Haridwar, known as the divine in-laws' home of Lord Shiva, where devotees gathered to perform Jalabhishek.
According to religious scriptures, Lord Shiva leaves Mount Kailash during the month of Sawan to reside at his in-laws' place, managing the operations of the universe from this very location. Pilgrims from various states travel to the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple in Kankhal, as it is believed that offering holy water here during this month yields special spiritual rewards.
The ancient town of Kankhal is also the birthplace of Goddess Sati, Lord Shiva's first consort. Mythological narratives recount that it was at this very site where Lord Shiva, filled with rage, severed King Daksha's head before restoring it with a goat's head upon the earnest request of the deities. Tradition holds that Mahadev dwells here throughout Sawan and is easily pleased when a devotee offers a single pot of Gangajal.
Located within the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple premises in Kankhal are a miraculous Shivling and the sacrificial arena of King Daksha, where Goddess Sati immolated herself in the holy fire. During Sawan, visiting devotees not only perform rituals by anointing the Shivling with Gangajal, milk, and bilva leaves, but they also pay their respects at the historic sacrificial pit.
Pandit Sridhar Shastri from Kankhal notes that Lord Shiva stays at the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple for the entire duration of Sawan. He showers his special grace upon those who worship with sincere devotion and observe fasts here. Anointing the Shivling with just a single pot of Gangajal at this sacred site is believed to eradicate all sorrows and poverty from a person's life.
The final Monday of Sawan went beyond conventional fasting and rituals, turning into a special opportunity for those who remained too busy throughout the month to engage in regular worship. Many individuals took time to sit quietly and chant Om Namah Shivaya.
