Haridwar (Uttarakhand) [India], August 5 (HBTV): A group of locals from Mansoorpur village in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district are participating in the Kanwar Yatra while drawing attention to the anti-encroachment efforts of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Popularly known as ‘Bulldozer Baba,’ CM Yogi Adityanath earned the nickname for his strict actions against illegal encroachment and criminal activities in the state.

The kanwariyas from Mansoorpur carried a specially themed ‘Bulldozer Baba’ kanwar, featuring a depiction of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Ashu, one of the Kanwar yatris, said, ‘The kanwar has come from Mansoorpur. We are inspired by Baba’s work—UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s work. He has brought in such a good environment in UP. So, we are taking this kanwar in his name. People are asking us about this and joining us.’

Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Haridwar and participated in a devotional event at the Ganga ghat near Om Bridge, where he welcomed kanwariyas from across the country by ceremonially washing their feet. He also took part in a bhajan sandhya organised for the occasion.

CM Dhami said, ‘It is my good fortune to have had the opportunity to wash the feet of Shiva devotees, the kanwariyas, and receive their blessings.’ He congratulated administrative officials, including those from HRDA and Haridwar Police, for successfully organising the event.

He added, ‘By merely offering water, Lord Shiva fulfils the wishes of all his devotees, and during the month of Sawan, the power of devotion to Lord Shiva increases tremendously. Travelling hundreds and thousands of kilometres from all over the country, kanwariyas collect water from the Ganga in Haridwar and perform jalabhishek. The Kanwar Yatra is not only a symbol of devotion and faith, but it also gives us an opportunity to be part of a virtuous act of service.’

According to officials, over one crore devotees have so far embarked on the Kanwar Yatra this year.

Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Dhami noted that devotees were satisfied with the arrangements and prayed for a safe pilgrimage. ‘There is a lot of enthusiasm among the devotees for this Kanwar Yatra. All stakeholders have made comprehensive arrangements. The devotees have expressed satisfaction. I pray for a safe yatra for all,’ he said.

The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During the annual pilgrimage, kanwariyas collect holy water from rivers and carry it over hundreds of kilometres to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Devotees across the country observe fasts, perform rituals, and undertake the yatra as a mark of devotion.

(ANI)