Reasi, July 14, 2025 – The sacred Shiv Khori cave shrine in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees on the first Monday of the holy Sawan month, marking the start of the Shrawan Mahotsav. The air resonated with divine chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Har Har Mahadev” as pilgrims gathered to offer prayers and perform Jalabhishek at the naturally formed Shivling inside the cave.The Shrawan Mahotsav, inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik, who also serves as the Vice Chairperson of the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB), commenced with spiritual fervor on July 14, coinciding with the first Sawan Somwar. Organized in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board, the festival began with a grand Kavad Yatra, starting from the Darshani Deodi at Ransoo Base Camp and culminating at the holy cave. Devotees, carrying ornately decorated Kavad on their shoulders, chanted hymns, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere.
The Rudhrabhishek ritual was performed inside the Shiv Khori cave, followed by a Hawan at the Hawan Kund Bhawan near the shrine, with the Deputy Commissioner in attendance. The district administration ensured a smooth pilgrimage with robust security measures and facilities, including crowd management and safety protocols, allowing devotees to worship with ease. Pilgrims were urged to follow safety norms to ensure a seamless experience.Sawan, also known as Shravan, is a sacred month dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Mondays (Sawan Somwar) holding special significance for devotees seeking blessings for spiritual growth, health, and harmony. The Shiv Khori shrine, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Jammu and Kashmir after Mata Vaishno Devi, attracted thousands who participated in rituals like Jalabhishek and attended special aartis.
The Shrawan Mahotsav will continue throughout the month (July 11 to August 9), featuring cultural and religious programs, including weekly Kavad Yatras, Shiv Puran Katha from July 27 to August 4, and a Bhajan Sandhya on August 4, fostering a spiritually uplifting environment.
