On final day on Yatra, relay race-like ‘Daak Kanwar’ takes spotlight
The last days of 'Kanwar Yatra' are dominated by 'Daak Kanwar', an intense practice requiring the pilgrims to carry holy water without stopping midway.
On the final day of the Kanwar Yatra, devotees known as Daak Kanwars took center stage, showcasing their unwavering devotion and endurance. Daak Kanwars are pilgrims who embark on the pilgrimage, or yatra, with the sole purpose of completing the journey as swiftly as possible, often by running or jogging. This swift completion sets them apart from regular Kanwariyas, who take breaks to rest and sleep during their pilgrimage.
The term "Daak" originates from the Hindi/Urdu word for mail or post, reminiscent of ancient postal runners who delivered messages rapidly without long pauses. As the Kanwar Yatra is primarily observed in northern India, Daak Kanwars also traverse states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. The Daak Kanwar practice is more physically demanding than the regular Kanwar Yatra, demanding exceptional endurance and meticulous planning.
Devotees undertake this arduous journey as an act of religious fervor, penance, or to fulfill a religious vow (m annat).
Written by urgent.news from Hindustan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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