On the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, a spiritual wave swept across Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi as lakhs of devotees gathered at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to perform 'Jalabhishek' and offer prayers.

The sacred city of Varanasi echoed with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” as Mangala Aarti and elaborate floral decorations marked the first Monday of Sawan.

Devotees began queuing outside the temple from late Sunday night, with many waiting 7 to 8 hours for the temple doors to open. As the gates opened, the entire city resonated with spiritual fervour, and chants filled the morning air.