As the sacred month of Sawan begins, districts in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana are experiencing a significant surge of Kanwariyas, devotees of Lord Shiva, who are taking part in the annual Kanwar Yatra. Due to the heavy movement of pilgrims, traffic disruptions, and safety issues, local authorities have declared school holidays on Sawan Mondays and on certain dates in various areas.

These proactive steps are designed to safeguard students and manage the large crowds during this holy time. Schools situated along the main Kanwar routes will be closed as devotees embark on their barefoot journeys to deliver holy water to Shiva temples.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

In the spiritual city of Varanasi, which is home to the esteemed Kashi Vishwanath temple—one of the twelve jyotirlingas—the district administration has announced that all government and private schools will be closed every Monday throughout Sawan. This includes all educational institutions located on the Kanwar routes leading into the temple city. This decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of students amidst the influx of devotees and the traffic congestion resulting from the pilgrimage.

Budaun, Uttar Pradesh

In a similar vein, the Budaun district administration has ordered school closures every Monday during Sawan. With the rising number of Kanwariyas on the streets, the local government has issued this directive to avoid disruptions for both students and school personnel.

Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh

In Bareilly, where devotees congregate at temples such as Saptnath, Guldiya Gaurishankar, and Siddh Gopala Baba for Jalabhishek rituals, the administration has also announced school holidays on all Sawan Mondays. These actions are aimed at facilitating traffic flow and ensuring public safety during the peak days of the pilgrimage.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

In the sacred city of Haridwar—where millions of Kanwariyas gather to collect Ganga water—the district administration has taken further measures. All schools and Anganwadi centers will be closed from July 14 to July 23.

Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

In Ujjain, home to the Mahakaleshwar temple, one of the twelve jyotirlingas, officials have mandated the closure of all schools every Monday from July 14 to August 11. This decision comes as the city sees a significant increase in pilgrim traffic during Sawan, leading authorities to take measures to alleviate congestion and enhance safety.

Nuh, Haryana

In the Nuh district of Haryana, the local government has announced a school holiday on July 14 in observance of the Jalabhishek Yatra, which takes place alongside the Kanwar Yatra. This measure is intended to prevent disruptions during school hours amid the religious festivities and to ensure that roads remain less crowded for both worshippers and local residents.