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Devotee Completes 40-Year Pilgrimage Tradition with 19 Daughters

A Hindu devotee in India has undertaken his annual Kanwar Yatra pilgrimage with an unusual entourage of 19 daughters, continuing a four-decade-long spiritual practice. The journey sees pilgrims trekking from Sultanganj to the Baijnath shrine to perform ritual water offerings to Lord Shiva.

LSN India · 25 August 2026

Devotee Completes 40-Year Pilgrimage Tradition with 19 Daughters

Sanjeev has maintained an unbroken tradition of undertaking the arduous Kanwar Yatra pilgrimage on foot for the past 40 years, carrying sacred Ganges water from Sultanganj to the Baijnath shrine during the Hindu month of Sawan. The annual expedition has become a hallmark of his religious devotion, with the devotee completing the sacred journey year after year to perform ritual ablutions of Lord Shiva at the temple.

This year's pilgrimage marks a significant milestone in Sanjeev's spiritual practice, as he has chosen to undertake the demanding trek alongside 19 daughters from his extended family. The inclusive approach to the sacred journey reflects a modern interpretation of traditional Hindu pilgrimage practices, with family members joining in the ritualistic observance.

The Kanwar Yatra remains one of India's largest religious gatherings, with millions of devotees participating annually during the monsoon season. Pilgrims typically carry decorated bamboo poles adorned with religious motifs and brass vessels to transport the holy water, walking considerable distances as an act of faith and penance.

Sanjeev's four-decade commitment to the pilgrimage demonstrates the continued significance of such spiritual practices in contemporary Indian society, with families increasingly participating together in traditional religious observances.