Kanwar Yatra 2026: In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Sawan is considered the most auspicious time for worshipping Lord Shiva. Every Monday this month is considered auspicious and spiritually rewarding. Lakhs of devotees participate in the Kanwar Yatra annually, leading to heavy crowds on the roads. The police administration bears a significant responsibility for maintaining security, traffic flow, and law and order during the Yatra, ensuring that devotees of Lord Shiva face no inconvenience. With this in mind, the Meerut district administration and police have commenced preparations for the Kanwar Yatra 2026 in full swing.
The administration held a crucial meeting with approximately 250 DJ operators. All operators must strictly adhere to the prescribed rules during the Yatra; failure to comply will result in strict action. Let us look at the rules that must be followed.
Sharing a post on the social media platform X, the Meerut Police stated that a coordination meeting was held at the Meerut Police Lines with around 250 DJ operators—attended by the SP City, SP Rural, CO Kotwali, and ADM City—to ensure the successful, safe, and peaceful conduct of the Kanwar Yatra 2026. Instructions were issued to all operators to play music in accordance with set standards, maintain religious harmony, and abide by the law, orders, and traffic regulations.
When does the month of Sawan begin?
According to Hindu belief, the first fast of Sawan—marking the day Lord Shiva’s grace is bestowed—will fall on August 3, 2026. It is believed that observing the first Monday fast of Sawan with proper rituals and devotion ensures that, with Lord Shiva’s blessings, one faces no shortage of anything in life. There will be a total of four Mondays during Sawan in 2026; the first Sawan Monday will be on August 3. The second Monday falls on August 10, the third on August 17, and the fourth on August 24. Large crowds of devotees gather at Shiva temples on these four days, with many beginning their visits early in the morning.
Mondays hold special significance during the month of Sawan; according to religious beliefs, this day is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Observing a fast and offering water, milk, Belpatra (wood apple leaves), and Dhatura to the Shivling on this day ensures Lord Shiva’s continued blessings.
DJ Size
Officials stated that the DJ setup used during the Kanwar Yatra must not exceed 12 feet in height or 10 feet in width. Action will be taken against anyone installing a DJ system larger than these specifications.
No Loud DJ Music
The administration has clearly stated that playing DJ music at very high volumes will not be permitted, as it causes inconvenience to local residents.
No Obscene Songs
Officials explicitly stated that obscene songs, offensive remarks, or inflammatory slogans that could hurt religious sentiments must not be played during the Kanwar Yatra.