AMARKANTAK, Madhya Pradesh — Nearly 700 devotees joined BJP MLA Bhawna Bohra-led Kanwar Yatra on its second day, as the 151-kilometre Bhawna Bohra Kanwar Yatra continued from Amarkantak to Bhoramdeo. Sixteen members of the Baiga tribal community were among those taking part in the pilgrimage, which began after devotees collected water from the Narmada River and offered prayers to Maa Narmada.
- Nearly 700 devotees participated in the second day of the 151-km Kanwar Yatra.
- Sixteen members of the Baiga tribal community joined the pilgrimage.
- The journey is covering the route from Amarkantak to Bhoramdeo Temple on foot.
- Women and young girls are also participating in large numbers.
Bhawna Bohra Kanwar Yatra gains momentum on Day 2
The pilgrimage, also known as the ‘Bol Bam Padayatra’, began in Amarkantak during the holy month of Shravan. After collecting water from the Narmada River, devotees started their journey towards Bhoramdeo Temple after offering prayers to Maa Narmada.
On the second day, the procession began from Lamni village in the Achanakmar Sanctuary area. The number of participants increased from around 500 on the opening day to nearly 700 as more devotees joined the walking pilgrimage.
Bohra said the participants had already covered about 30 kilometres on the first day. She described the route as challenging because of its stretches of stones, pebbles, forests and water.
“Yesterday, we covered a distance of about 30 kilometres. Today, nearly 700 Kanwariyas are walking with us. The path is filled with pebbles, stones, forests, and water, but with the Kanwar in hand, there is confidence in our hearts that our resolve will surely be fulfilled,” Bohra said.
16 Baiga tribals join the religious journey
The participation of 16 members of the Baiga tribal community emerged as one of the notable features of the second day. A large number of women and young girls are also taking part in the pilgrimage.
Bohra said the participation of the Baiga community and women had added a distinct character to the yatra. She also said the enthusiasm of participants had strengthened her resolve to continue the journey.
“The enthusiasm of every participant strengthens my resolve even further. In particular, the participation of the Baiga tribals and a large number of women makes this yatra truly special,” Bohra said.
Baiga participant speaks about joining the yatra
Chatushnam, a Baiga tribal participant, said Bohra’s role had encouraged members of the community to become part of the religious journey. He described her as more than an MLA or an elder sister and said she had inspired them to participate.
“We really like her work. Now, we honour our parents and traditional deities and are participating in this yatra with great joy and enthusiasm,” he said.
Challenging terrain adds to the journey
The devotees are covering the route on foot while carrying Kanwars on their shoulders. The journey passes through forests as well as areas containing stones, pebbles and stretches of water.
The difficult terrain has not prevented the pilgrims from continuing the journey. On Monday, more than 500 devotees had set out from Amarkantak amid chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, ‘Bol Bam’ and ‘Narmada Maiya Ki Jai’.
Women and young devotees among participants
The organisers’ account of the second day highlighted the participation of women and young girls alongside the wider group of Kanwariyas. Their presence has become another prominent feature of the pilgrimage as it moves toward Bhoramdeo.
The 151-kilometre journey is being undertaken during Shravan, with devotees carrying the Kanwars after collecting Narmada water at Amarkantak. The pilgrimage will proceed towards Bhoramdeo Temple.
What happens next
The Kanwar Yatra will continue along its planned 151-kilometre route from Amarkantak to Bhoramdeo. With participation rising from around 500 devotees on the first day to nearly 700 on the second, the pilgrimage has gathered greater participation as it moves forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the route of Bhawna Bohra’s Kanwar Yatra?
The yatra is a 151-kilometre walking pilgrimage from Amarkantak to Bhoramdeo Temple in Madhya Pradesh.
Who joined the Kanwar Yatra on its second day?
Nearly 700 devotees participated on the second day, including 16 members of the Baiga tribal community. Women and young girls are also taking part in the pilgrimage.
