Lakhs of Kanwariyas have taken to the roads during the annual Kanwar Yatra, carrying holy Ganga water from pilgrimage sites such as Haridwar and Gangotri to offer it at Shiva temples during the holy month of Sawan. Authorities have deployed extensive security, traffic diversions and medical facilities to ensure the smooth conduct of one of India's largest religious pilgrimages. (PICS/PTI)

The holy month of Sawan began with thousands of devotees visiting Shiva temples across India to offer prayers and perform 'jalabhishek'. From Kashi Vishwanath and Neelkanth Mahadev to Gauri Shankar Temple and Patna's Shiva shrines, worshippers marked the auspicious occasion with devotion as the Kanwar Yatra also gained momentum. (Pics/PTI)