A Unique Example of Faith from Sultanganj to Deoghar; Subodh Kumar Singh of Lakhisarai Undertaking an Arduous 98-Kilometer Kanwar Journey on His Knees, People Left Emotional at the Sight
Bhagalpur, Special Correspondent: During the world-famous Shravani Mela, numerous colors of supreme devotion unfold among Shiva devotees arriving from across the country and abroad along the Silk City Sultanganj and the Kanwria pathway. While some cover hundreds of kilometers prostrating on the ground, others advance toward the court of Baba Baidyanath with rigorous penance. Amidst this, a scene along the Sultanganj Kanwria route has become the talk of the town, moving every passerby to tears and bowing their heads in reverence. Subodh Kumar Singh, a resident of Ramchandrapur village in the Lakhisarai district, has embarked on an arduous Kanwar journey on his knees, driven by profound faith and the belief that his wish will be fulfilled. This unique and excruciating penance of his has become a major source of inspiration and discussion among all pilgrims visiting the Shravani Mela.
Arduous Path and Unwavering Resolve: Blisters on Feet Cannot Halt His Steps
After collecting holy water from the northward-flowing Ganges bank in Sultanganj, when the batch of Kanwrias sets off for Deoghar, the approximately 98-kilometer long foot journey is considered physically extremely challenging even for ordinary individuals:
The Vow to Walk on Knees: In such circumstances, instead of walking normally, Subodh Kumar Singh undertaking this journey on his knees is nothing short of miraculous willpower. The protective pads and bandages tied around his knees testify to how difficult and painful this journey is, but his devotion to Lord Bholenath completely triumphs over this agony.
Weather Extremes Fail to Break His Spirit: In the early days of the holy month of Shravan, scorching sunshine and blazing sands, followed at times by sudden torrential rains, make the paths of the Kanwria route even more grueling. Despite this, Subodh Kumar Singh's steps do not stop. Even when rains turn the entire path slushy with mud, he continues moving forward with utter dedication.
Passersby Moved to Tears, Everyone Bows in Reverence
Whoever witnesses this devout journey of Subodh Kumar Singh cannot help but turn emotional:
Support from Service Camps and Devotees: When volunteers and fellow Shiva devotees engaged in service along the Kanwria path see Subodh walking on his knees in this manner, they automatically step forward to assist him. People offer him fruits, water, and first aid, praying for a safe and successful journey.
A Living Example of Faith: Eyewitnesses along the route state that they have seen many Kanwrias undertaking journeys with various vows in their lives, but examples of penance and dedication like Subodh Kumar Singh's are rarely witnessed. His journey proves that when a person possesses unwavering belief, physical hardships pale in comparison.
Why Is This 98-Kilometer Journey from Sultanganj to Deoghar Special?
This Kanwar journey from Sultanganj to Deoghar holds special significance in Hindu Sanatan culture:
The First Phase: Devotees reach the northward-flowing Ganges Ghat in Sultanganj to collect holy water. It is believed that the Ganges flows northward here, symbolizing salvation and purity.
Rigorous Discipline: Throughout this entire journey, Kanwrias must adhere to strict rules. The Kanwar must never touch the ground, and the entire journey is completed amidst continuous chants of 'Bol Bam'. Subodh Kumar Singh is carrying out this special penance while meticulously following all these traditional rules.
The journey of Subodh Kumar Singh, hailing from Ramchandrapur in Lakhisarai, is not merely a religious ritual; it has transformed into the ultimate testament of human indomitable will, surrender to the divine, and unwavering faith. His journey on knees between Sultanganj and Deoghar has etched itself as one of the most poignant and inspiring stories of Shravani Mela 2026, one that will remain alive in the memories of devotees for days to come.
