Varanasi/Sambhal(UP) | Shiva temples across the region were filled with crowds of devotees offering prayers on Sawan Shivratri, which coincided with the last day of the Kanwar Yatra on Wednesday.

"A large crowd of devotees has gathered at the temple since morning. Flowers are being showered on the worshippers," said Vishwa Bhushan Mishra, CEO of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi.

Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal assured that "special surveillance" is being maintained through CCTV cameras and drones to ensure law and order.

In Sambhal, the ancient Kartikeya Mahadev Temple, which reopened earlier this year after nearly 46 years, also saw a significant turnout of devotees.

Sub Divisional Magistrate Vikas Chandra, who performed 'jalabhishek' at the temple, said that authorities are working hard to restore Sambhal's 'lost identity'.

"We are blessed to have had the opportunity to worship and perform 'jalabhishek' at this ancient temple," Deepak Kumar, a devotee, said.