Daily Food Distribution for Pilgrims in Varanasi during Sawan
Every year, during the holy month of Sawan, thousands of devotees, known as Kanwariyas, visit the city to pay their respects to Lord Shiva. This year, a daily food distribution (Bhandara) has been organized to serve these pilgrims, starting from Wednesday.
The Initiative
The Bhandara near Chitranjan Park (Dashashwamedh) has been initiated with the collaboration of Shyam Steel and the religious organization Om Namah Shivaya. This initiative aims to provide free meals to the visiting devotees, ensuring that they have the energy and nourishment needed to complete their spiritual journey.
The Menu
On the first day, the Bhandara served a variety of traditional and delectable dishes to the Shiva devotees. The menu included:
- Puri
- Sabzi (vegetable curry)
- Halwa (a sweet dish)
- Papad
- Kheer (a sweet rice pudding)
- Various sweets
These dishes were not only delicious but also prepared with utmost care to ensure hygiene and quality.
Key Contributors
The Bhandara saw active participation from several notable individuals who helped in distributing the food. Among the key contributors were:
- Lalit Beriwal
- Mukesh Sharma
- Kanhaiya Dubey 'KD'
- Pandit Vedmurti Shastri
- Vijay Mishra
- Rajesh Sharma
- Kishan Chaudhary
- Sunil Sharma
Their dedication and selfless service were instrumental in the smooth functioning of the food distribution.
Importance of Bhandara in Sawan
Sawan is considered one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this time, devotees undertake Kanwar Yatra, a pilgrimage to fetch the sacred water of the Ganges and offer it to Shiva temples. The Bhandara serves as a crucial support system for these pilgrims, providing them with free meals and ensuring they can focus on their spiritual practices without worrying about food.
The daily Bhandara near Chitranjan Park (Dashashwamedh) in Varanasi is a testament to the spirit of service and devotion. It reflects the city's commitment to supporting its pilgrims and upholding its traditions. As the month of Sawan progresses, this initiative will continue to nourish the bodies and souls of countless Shiva devotees, making their pilgrimage a truly fulfilling experience.
For those planning to visit Varanasi during Sawan, this Bhandara is a must-visit. Not only will you get to enjoy delicious food, but you'll also experience the warmth and hospitality that the city is known for.
