ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ
“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”
Govardhan Puja is an auspicious festival in the Hindu culture that occurs a day after Diwali to commemorate the Baal Roop (child form) of Lord Shri Krishna.
Govardhan Puja is also known as Annakut or Annakoot (meaning a “mountain of food”), in which devotees‘ worship Govardhan Parvat (a hill) and offer 56 varieties (Chappan Bhog) of vegetarian food and sweets as a mark of gratitude.
The word Govardhan is derived from the Govardhan mountain located in Gokul (Uttar Pradesh), which was single-handedly lifted by Lord Krishna.
Govardhan puja started from Brijbhoomi as a thanksgiving ceremony to the most lovable God Krishna and gradually became prevalent throughout India.
According to the Hindu calendar, people of India celebrate this holy festival on the first day of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month.
How is Govardhan Puja Celebrated?: Devotees celebrate this auspicious ritual Govardhan Puja or Annakut Puja with utmost devotion.
The birthplace of Lord Krishna known as Brijbhoomi celebrates this festival with a grand ceremony.
The idols of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha are given milk bath and dressed in new clothes and ornaments in the temples of Mathura and Vrindavan.
• The puja starts with devotees making heaps of cow dung in the form of a hill which represents a symbol of mount Govardhan and decorates it with different colors and flowers.
• Then, devotees perform ‘Parikrama’ (moving around the mountain) around the cow dung hillocks while doing Kirtans (a combination of music, dance, and devotional hymns).
• They offer prayers and aarti to the Govardhan parvat (mountain) for the protection and happiness of their family.
• The temples of Lord Krishna all across the country celebrate this festival by reciting bhajans, Kirtans and by offering different foods, sweets, and flowers to the deities and distributing the prasad among all devotees.
• As per the tradition, devotees prepare and offer ‘Chappan Bhog (56 different food items made up of delicacies, sweets, or savouries) to the Govardhan mountain as a respect towards Mother Nature.
The festival of Govardhan puja is associated with several other rituals and traditions.
People living in different parts of India, celebrate this holy day while worshipping Lord Indra, the God of Rain, and Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architecture god for their blessings and support to live a comfortable life on earth.
Significance: Govardhan Puja is an auspicious festival that upholds the powerful bond of faith, devotion, and protection between Gods and devotees.
The story behind Govardhan Puja educates every human to respect the forces of nature and to always remember that, being a mortal, we are dependent on Mother nature and must be grateful for all the blessings bestowed on us.
The story of Lord Krishna, lifting the mountain and saving the lives of thousands of devotees describes that bhakti or devotion is the only way to connect with divinity.
Lord Krishna lifted and sheltered all living beings of Gokul village under the large mountain, Govardhan.
So, the significance of Govardhan puja also rests on the belief of the devotees in their Lord and how the Lord will protect them against all odds and in every critical situation.
Govardhan Puja Story: As per Vishnu Puran, once Lord Krishna asked His mother Yashoda the reason behind worshipping God Indra.
Mother Yashoda explained that people worship God Indra because He is responsible for rain on Earth. Young Krishna disagreed with His mother and asked the villagers to stop worshipping God Indra.
He had requested them to worship the Govardhan mountain, for the reason that Mount Govardhan is the one that provides natural resources to the villagers for their livelihood.
All villagers agreed with Krishna as He was respected by everyone due to His knowledge and immense power.
As a result, God Indra got furious by the act of the young boy Krishna and asked Varuna Deva (the god of rains) to pour continuous torrential rain for seven days.
Due to the heavy downpour, the people of Gokul requested Lord Krishna to save their lives.
The little God Krishna immediately asked the villagers to come near the Govardhan hill, where He uprooted and lifted the mountain on His little finger.
Villagers, along with their cows and other animals, took shelter under the Govardhan mountain.
After 7 days of continuous storms, Lord Indra accepted his defeat and stopped the storms as he realized that the young boy is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
This day is therefore celebrated as a festival that pays respect to Mount Govardhan.
Since that event, Hindus started celebrating Govardhan Puja and Mount Govardhan becomes a major pilgrimage site for the devotees of Lord Krishna.
On the day of Annakut, thousands of devotees offer a variety of food to the mountain after doing the ‘Parikrama’ of an eleven-mile path around the mountain and offering flowers and Diyas to the several shrines located in that region.
Summary: According to the Hindu calendar, Govardhan Puja falls in the month of October-November. Hindus celebrates this holy day on the very next day of the grand Diwali celebration.
People worship Lord Krishna as well as the Govardhan Mountain as a symbol that reminds the victory of good over evil.
People from different regions celebrate this day according to their age-old tradition.
Govardhan Puja is grandly celebrated in Mathura and Gokul because it is the birth place of Lord Krishna and He had spent most of his childhood in this region.
Bhagavat Purana describes a beautiful story that Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill with His little finger for 7 days and nights to provide shelter to the villagers of Gokul from torrential rains.
Since this episode, Govardhan has turned into a pilgrimage and devotees’ worship and offer prayers and food to the mountain.
Hindu devotees around the world come to worship Govardhan mountain, which is located near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh.
On this auspicious day, devotees offer 56 kinds of sweet dishes to Lord Krishna which are collectively called “Chhappan Bhog”.
Devotees worship Lord Krishna as well as ‘Govardhan Parvat’ with full devotion and they perform kirtans, aarti, bhajans, etc.
Devotees with their utmost faith and love for Lord Krishna, offer prayer and seek his blessing for a life without hurdles.
Why is Govardhan Puja celebrated? Know the significance
In several parts of the country, people are celebrating the Govardhan puja.
It is also known as Annakut puja, which falls on the partipada tithi in the month of Kartik.
It is observed on the occasion when Lord Krishna defeated God Indra.
The puja involves various rituals like the preparation of annakuts.
Cow dung is also prepared in the shape of Govardhan.
Along with the puja, there are many special bhog items prepared like wheat, rice, curry, and leafy vegetables served to the idol of Lord Krishna.
The state of Maharashtra celebrates this day as Bali Pratipada or Bali Padva.
As per their belief, the cultural victory of Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, over King Bali by pushing him to the Patal Lok marks the beginning of this puja.
It is also believed that on this day, King Bali visits Prithvi Lok.
The day coincides with Gujrati New Year, which is celebrated on Shukla Paksha Pratipada of Kartik month.
According to Hindu mythology, Govardhan puja is observed in the victory of Lord Krishna over Lord Indra.
Lord Krishna, with a motive to save the entire village from the heavy rainfall, lifted the Govardhan parvat to provide shelter to the people.
After seven days of huge rainfall, Lord Indra accepted his defeat and stopped the rainfall.
Devotees on this day prepare a hill of cow dung that represents Mount Govardhan.
They decorate the mountains with flowers and rangoli.
They offer prayers to Lord Govardhan to protect their families from any kind of bad deeds.
Govardhan Puja (Annakut)
Govardhan Puja is celebrated a day after Diwali, that is the fourth day of the 5-day grand Hindu festival.
Occasionally there can be a day gap between Diwali celebrations and Govardhan Puja.
According to the Hindu calendar it falls on the first lunar day called as ‘Ekam’ of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight of moon) in the month of Kartik.
It forms an integral part of Diwali celebrations.
Govardhan Puja commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over Indra.
Govardhan Puja is called by different names in different parts of the country. In some places it is known as ‘Bali Pratipada’, ‘Annakut Puja’, ‘Padwa’ or even ‘Gujarati New Year’.
Govardhan Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal in the Indian states of Haryana, Punjab, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
In the state of Haryana particularly, there is a ritual of making cow dung hillocks that is symbolic of Mount Govardhan.
People then decorate these hillocks with flowers and worship them.
In Maharashtra is it observed as ‘Padwa’ and there is a tradition of gifting presents to wives by men.
In the state of Haryana and Gujarat, it marks the start of New Year or Vikram Samvat. In some parts of India, the day after Diwali is also observed as ‘Vishwakarma Day’.
This day is dedicated to worshipping the tools and is marked as a holiday officially.
Rituals of Govardhan Puja:
On the day of Govardhan Puja, people make hillocks from cow dung, which represents Mount Govardhan.
These hillocks are then beautifully adorned with flowers and worshipped with kumkum and Akshatra.
Devotees then perform ‘Parikrama’ (a ritual of taking rounds) around the hillocks.
They pray devotedly to Lord Govardhan and ask Him to protect them from hardships of life.
On this day people also give bath to their bulls and cow and decorate them with garlands and saffron.
They then worship the cows and bulls as they were considered dear to Lord Krishna.
The preparation of ‘Annakoot’ is an integral part of the Govardhan Puja.
The word ‘Annakoot’ means ‘mountain of food’.
Therefore on the auspicious day of Govardhan Puja, devotees 108 or even 56 varied preparations of food to offer as ‘Bhog’ to Lord Krishna.
The idols of Lord Krishna are bathed in milk and adorned with beautiful and dazzling clothes and jewelry.
They are then worshipped by traditional means, including Bhog and aarti.
The ‘Annakoot’ Prasad is then distributed amongst family members and friends.
In some states of India, the day just after Diwali is observed as ‘Kartik Shudha Padwa’.
This day celebrates the return of King Bali and is also called as ‘Bali Padyami’.
In Maharashtra and some western states, Govardhan Puja is celebrated as ‘Gudi Padwa’.
On this wife garlands their husband, apply ‘Tilak’ on their forehead and perform an aarti for their long and prosperous life.
As a token of appreciation, the husbands then shower their wives with expensive gifts as a token of love.
Hence the festival of Gudi Padwa cherishes the bond of selfless love and devotion between husband and wife.
Govardhan Puja is observed with immense fervour all over India.
This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil.
According to the Hindu scriptures, on this day Lord Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan on his little finger to save the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra, the God of Rain.
From then onwards people began worshipping Mount Govardhan with devotion and Lord Krishna was also given the name of ‘Govardhandhari’ or ‘Girirdhari’.
The celebrations of Govardhan Puja are very notable in Nathdwara, Mathura and Vrindavan.
The deities in all the temples are dressed up in shining attires and dazzling ornaments made from pearl, rubies, diamonds and other precious stones.
Special prayers and bhajan ceremonies are organized in these temples and people flock to these places in large numbers.
The festivities can be witnessed in all the Lord Krishna temples spread across the country.
On this day the Prasad is distributed to everyone.
Govardhan
Why Do We Celebrate Govardhan Puja After Diwali?
When is Shubh Muhurat This Year?
Right on the next day after Diwali festival, there is a tradition of Diwali Govardhan Puja in north India. And Govardhan is a festival which has its roots way back in our culture.
Govardhan Puja started from Dwapar Yuga after the incarnation of Lord Krishna.
In this, in the courtyard of a Hindu religious house, they worship Lord Govardhan Nathji with cow dung.
After that, to appease Giriraj Bhagwan (mountain), he is offered food to Annakoot.
Reason Why We Celebrate Diwali Govardhan Puja
The religious belief behind Govardhan Puja is that Lord Krishna wanted to break the pride of Indra.
For this, he raised the Govardhan mountain on his little finger and protected the people of Gokul from Indra.
It is believed that after this, Lord Krishna himself ordered 56 Bhog on the day of Kartik Shukla Pratipada to worship Govardhan Parvat.
Since then, the practice of Govardhan Puja continues to this day, and every year the festival of Govardhan Puja is celebrated.
Govardhan Puja Muhurat
Traditional festivals are celebrated with utmost and integrity, and Shubh Muhurats are followed to seek the blessing of almighty in the best way possible.
Every year, experts roll out Govardhan Puja Muhurat, which is followed by those who celebrate this festival.
Govardhan Puja Ka Time
गोवर्धन पूजा सायं काल मुहूर्त दोपहर बाद 03:17 बजे से सायं 05:24 बजे तक
Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is celebrated ever since Bhagwan Krishna defeated Indra, the king of heaven, by lifting the Govardhan Parvat to quench his pride.
Govardhan Parvat is also known as Giriraj Parvat.
It is believed that the sage Pulastya was very impressed by the beauty of this mountain.
When he wanted to lift it from Dronachal mountain and bring it along, Giriraj ji said that wherever you keep me for the first time, I will be established there.
On the way, the sage put the mountain down for meditation, then he could not move it again. Angered by this, he cursed the mountain that it would decrease every day.
It is believed that since that time the height of Govardhan mountain has been decreasing continuously.
The Govardhan Leela of Bhagwan Krishna is described in chapters 10, 11 and 12 of the fifth section of Vishnu Purana.
इति कृत्वा मतिं कृष्णो गोवर्धनमहीधरम् ।
उत्पाट्यैककरेणेव धारयामास लीलया ॥ [ विष्णुपुराणम्/5/11/16 ]
Meaning: Thinking like this, Shri Krishnachandra uprooted the Govardhan parvat and lifted it on one hand from Leela itself.
Method and rules of Govardhan Puja
❀ On the day of Govardhan Puja, wake up in the morning and wear clean clothes after taking a bath.
❀ On this day Govardhan parvat is made from cow dung and it is decorated with flowers.
❀ There is a law to worship the cow on this day. But at the same time the animals used for agricultural work are also worshiped.
❀ Offer kumkum, water, fruits, flowers and naivedya etc. to the Govardhan parvat made in the worship. Then light an incense lamp.
❀ After worship, circumambulate the Govardhan parvat seven times. During this, water is also dropped from the kalash while sowing barley.
❀ On this day, along with Govardhan Puja, there is a law to worship Bhagwan Krishna and Bhagwan Vishwakarma as well.
Importance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja has a special significance in Hinduism. It is also known as Annakoot Puja.
This festival is celebrated on the next day of Deepawali.
The festival of Govardhan Puja is dedicated to Giriraj Govardhan Parvat and Bhagwan Krishna.
Govardhan Puja is also important because it connects man with nature.
In this, nature is worshiped in the form of Govardhan parvat.
Along with this, cows are also worshiped.
In Hinduism, the cow is considered a sacred animal and a form of Devi Lakshmi.
This festival also shows the importance of cows along with nature.
The person who worships Govardhan Puja with full rituals increases his wealth, children, prosperity and happiness.
Govardhan Puja
Bali Pratipada, Govardhan or Annakut Puja is held on the fourth day of Diwali celebration i.e. a day after Diwali on the month of Kartika.
This festival is solely dedicated to Lord Krishna’s victory over Lord Indra.
Everything about Govardhan Puja
Sometimes Govardhan Puja falls with a day gap between Diwali and this festival is celebrated by devotees by cooking wheat, rice, gram flour curry, and vegetables without garlic and onion are to offer Lord Krishna.
Meaning of Govardhan
Go means cow and Vardhan means nourishment.
Another meaning of Govardhan is “Go” means senses and “Vardhan” means increases that mean increasing one’s senses by worshipping Lord Krishna.
On this day Govardhan Parvat is worshipped as a belief to increase spirituality and devotion towards Lord Krishna.
Origins of Govardhan Puja
Braj is a place where Krishna spent his most of his childhood days with his friends and people narrates his heroic stories which he exploited in that period.
One of the most famous events of that time is lifting up Govardhan Parvat (hill) by Lord Krishna from his little finger for 7 days and nights to save people of Braj this story is stated in Bhagavata Purana and is most recognizable one.
Since this episode, Govardhan has become a pilgrimage hill for all Braj people and devotees worship and offer prayers to the mountain.
The journey to the hill marks many shrines dotted in its way along 11 miles on which devotees offer flowers and prayers.
Legend behind Govardhan Puja
The day after Diwali has celebrated as Govardhan or Annakut puja (a heap of grains) as a symbol of victory of Lord Krishna over arrogant Lord Indra.
On this day Vrindavan (Abode of Lord Krishna) people hold a harvest festival in the honor of Lord Indra who is the god of rains necessary for harvesting.
There is a story behind this epic day.
It is said that Lord Indra was very arrogant and always wanted a Puja or Havan and Avahana for rains to visit the particular region.
Lord Krishna wanted to teach him a lesson and somehow convinced Vrindavan people to worship Govardhan Hill in spite of Kinglord Indra.
As Govardhan hill provided food to cows and its fertile soil give grass grazing to animals for milk production and ploughing the lands.
When Indra saw that he is not worshipped he burst in anger and retaliated with terrifying thunderstorms due to which scared the villagers and all started to leave Vrindavan.
To save people and animals from drowning the almighty Lord Shri Krishna lifted Govardhan hill for seven days and gave shelter to all loving beings under the hill from the terrain rain.
At last, Lord Indra realized his mistake and requested forgiveness from the Almighty. In this way, Lord Krishna stated that he is the lord of demigods and termed as Deva Deva.
Shree Madhavendra Puri temple was established several years later on Govardhan Hill in the context of self-manifested god Gopala which consist of cows and bulls as an incarnation of the god they all are worshipped.
After the festival, Prasad is distributed to devotees.
All Vaishnava temples celebrate this ceremony all over the world and distribute Prasad as per their capacity.
Significance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is performed by preparing different cereals for Govardhan Hill like rice, wheat, kadhi, sabji etc. And dance and sing lord Krishna songs.
The hill is considered sacred and is a form of god which gives protection, shelter, and food in severe conditions.
There are different ways to celebrate Govardhan Puja across the country and the special day is commemorated as the victory of good over evil.
Worshipping Govardhan hill is by means that he will always protect the people and provide shelter and life necessities.
Govardhan Puja Vidhi for home
Govardhan puja is famously known as Annakoot puja too. In this people cook 56 varieties of food which is offered to Lord Krishna and Govardhan image.
Govardhan Puja Samagri (Ingredients)
- Sugarcane sticks
- Cow dung or mud
- Raw milk, curd, batasha, laddoo, and peda
- Kumkum, turmeric, akshata, and chandan
- Earthen lamp and ghee
- A silver coin
- Incense sticks
Performing Govardhan Puja
Puja begins by offering sugarcane sticks to the image of Govardhan hill.
- Light earthen lamp and apply tilak with kumkum, haldi, akshata and chandan.
- Offer incense sticks and pray to god.
- After puja performs aarti of Govardhan Parvat and offers naivedya.
- Leave some batasha in a plate with money and distribute it to the needy.
- Read Lakshmi Ji Ki Katha and the person reciting Katha should give silver coin as Dakshina.
- After puja apply Kajal from the Lamp of Kajlota.
And for prosperity woman of the house should eat something sweet first and then distribute it among others.
Govardhan Puja Mantra
Govardhan Dharaadhar Gokultranakarak
Vishnubahukritocchraya Gavaa Kotiprado Bhava”
Lakshmirya Lokpaalaanang Dhenurupena Sangsthita
Ghritang Vahati Yagyarthe Mama Papang Vyapohtu”
Lakshmiji ki Katha
There was a Sahukaar’s daughter who used to water the Peepal tree every day.
Lakshmi Ji used to appear from the tree and would ask the girl to become her friend.
One day the girl told Lakshmiji that she would seek her father’s permission.
The father advised his daughter to become Lakshmiji’s friend as she was Devi personified.
The next day when Lakshmiji asked the girl again to become her friend she agreed and both became friends.
Lakshmiji invited the girl to her house for a meal.
After getting her father’s permission, she went to Lakshmiji’s house.
There she was made to sit on a golden chowki and was served a sumptuous meal in vessels made of gold.
Lakshmiji gifted her with a shawl, gold coins, and ornaments.
As she was leaving for her house, Lakshmiji caught hold of her pallu and asked to be invited to her house.
When the girl returned home, the Sahukaar found her looking sad and asked her for the reason.
The daughter explained her dilemma saying Lakshmiji wanted to come to their house.
She was sad because they would be unable to reciprocate the lavish hospitality extended by Lakshmiji.
The father asked her not to worry and said they would offer Lakshmiji whatever they had.
The Sahukaar then asked his daughter to smear the floor with cow dung, light a lamp in a corner of the house, place a laddoo next to it and sit there chanting Lakshmiji’s name.
As she was chanting, an eagle brought a costly diamond necklace belonging to the Rani and on seeing the laddoo dropped the necklace there and took the laddoo away.
The daughter sold the necklace and with that money, bought a gold chowki, gold utensils, gold coins, shawls and prepared sumptuous food.
The daughter invited Lakshmiji for dinner.
The daughter placed the gold chowki and requested Lakshmiji to sit down.
Lakshmiji declined to explain that even in the Raja’s palace she would not sit as she has to be on the move all the time for good of the world.
The girl insisted that Lakshmiji should sit saying she wanted to prove to her family that Lakshmiji was her friend.
Lakshmiji agreed to her request and sat down.
The girl served her with lots of love and devotion.
Lakshmiji was very pleased and presented the girl with great wealth.
After a while, the girl told Lakshmiji that she had to go out and requested that Lakshmiji should wait until she returned.
The daughter did not come back and Lakshmiji continued to wait for her in her father’s house.
As a result, the Sahukaar’s home was always filled with wealth and Lakshmiji’s blessings.
Lakshmiji, as you blessed the Sahukaars’s daughter with wealth and sat in her house so also bless the narrator of the Katha, listener, and followers of the Katha along with their families. Bindaayakji /Ganeshji ki Katha is read after one reads the festival, Katha.
A few grains of rice are kept in the hand while listening to the Katha, after completion of the Katha, the rice grains are left in the water of the Kalash, kept for puja
Shri Govardhan Ji Maharaj Ki Aarti
Shri goverdhan maharaj, o maharaj,
Tere mathe mukut viraj raho |
Tope paan chade ,tope pool chade,
Aur chade doodh ki dhar, o dhar|
Tere mathe…
Tere kanan mein kundal, sohe Tere gale vajyantimal.
Tere mathe…
Teri saat kosh ki parikrama, Teri de rahe nar aur naar.
Tere mathe…
Tere jatipura mein doodh chadat hai, Teri ho rahi jai jaikar.
Tere mathe…
Tere manshi ganga bahe sada, Teri maya aperampar.
Tere mathe…
Briaj mandal jab doobat dekha Gwal bal jab vyakul dekhe, Liya nakh per girverdhar.
Tere mathe…
Vrindavan ki kunj galin mein, Vo to khel rahe nandlal.
Tere mathe…
Krishna chhavi Tere charano pae balihar.
Tere mathe…
Aarti Shri Krishna Ji ki
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki
Gale Mein Baijanti Mala, Bajave Murali Madhur Bala।
Shravan Mein Kundal Jhalakala, Nand Ke Anand Nandlala।
Gagan Sam Ang Kanti Kali, Radhika Chamak Rahi Aali।
Latan Mein Thadhe Banamali;
Bhramar Si Alak, Kasturi Tilak, Chandra Si Jhalak;
Lalit Chavi Shyama Pyari Ki॥
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥ x2
Kanakmay Mor Mukut Bilse, Devata Darsan Ko Tarse।
Gagan So Suman Raasi Barse;
Baje Murchang, Madhur Mridang, Gwaalin Sang;
Atual Rati Gop Kumaari Ki॥
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥ x2
Jahaan Te Pragat Bhayi Ganga, Kalush Kali Haarini Shri Ganga।
Smaran Te Hot Moh Bhanga;
Basi Shiv Shish, Jataa Ke Beech, Harei Agh Keech;
Charan Chhavi Shri Banvaari Ki॥
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥ x2
Chamakati Ujjawal Tat Renu, Baj Rahi Vrindavan Benu।
Chahu Disi Gopi Gwaal Dhenu;
Hansat Mridu Mand, Chandani Chandra, Katat Bhav Phand;
Ter Sun Deen Bhikhaaree Ki॥
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki
Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥ x2
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki, Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki, Shri Girdhar Krishna Murari Ki॥
This was all about Govardhan Puja.
If you are facing any issues in life or want to add-on to the good days, we recommend you offer a Puja.
Govardhan Puja Festival
Govardhan Pooja is celebrated immediately after Diwali in commemoration of Lord Krishna’s victory over Lord Indira. There are many legends about the history of this festival.
It is however celebrated majorly in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Maharashtra.
It is celebrated under different names in different parts of the country according to the significance of the festival that is prevalent in that area.
This festival is more focused on the puja or the prayer ceremony for the deity and not on the celebrants in themselves.
History
There are many legends that allude to the origin of Govardhan Puja.
The most popular of these, states that Govardhan was a small hillock that was located near Mathura at a place called Braj.
According to the Vishnu Puraan, that the town of Gokul used to worship Lord Indira because of their belief that he was the one who provided them with rains.
The rains were important because their life and livelihood depended on it.
However, Lord Krishna told the people that it wasn’t Indra but Govardhan Parvat that brought the rains and therefore the latter should be worshipped and prayed to.
When the people followed this ordinance, Lord Indira’s wrath on the people resulted in heavy rains.
Lord Krishna then saved the people of Gokul by first praying to Govardhan Parvat and then lifting it on his little finger under which the people took shelter from the rains.
This day is also known as ‘Padwa’ in Maharashtra because of the victory of Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, over King Bali. It is also marks the day King Vikramaditya was coroneted and is known as the Vikram Samvat.
More often than not, this day coincides with the beginning of the Gujarati New Year. However, it is possible for the Govardhan Puja to occur a day before the beginning of the new year.
Diversity in Celebration
Annakoot
Also referred to as ‘Annakoot’, at Govardhan Puja, devotees prepare 56 or 108 dishes to offer to Lord Krishna.
This offering is also known as ‘bhog’. The bhog can also be in the form of a mountain of delectable food items, that is a symbolic representation of the mountain Govardhan.
The idol of Lord Krishna in the temples at Nathdwara and Mathura, as well as other places is decked up in fine clothes and precious jewels. Beginning with a bath in milk, the idols are then wrapped in fine fabrics such as silk and chiffon.
The colors of these garments are usually red, yellow or saffron as these are considered auspicious by the Hindu community.
Ornaments of diamonds, pearls, gold and other precious metals and stones are carefully placed on the idols.
Gudi Padwa
The day of Govardhan Puja, also known as Gudi Padwa in some regions, is also celebrated as an appreciation of the love and respect between a husband and his wife. While the wife applies red colored tilak on the husband’s forehead, prays for his well being and performs and Aarti, the husbands gift their wives a token of their appreciation. This can be in the form of a new garment, preferably an expensive saree or gold jewelry as gold is considered to be an auspicious metal.
The ornament that is brought can be anything from a necklace to earrings or bangles.
On this day, families also invite their newlywed daughters and their husbands for a meal.
This get together culminates in the giving of presents to the newlywed.
The presents again are either expensive garments or jewelry, preferably in gold.
Gujarati New Year
The Gujarati Community celebrate this day in clusters i.e. all the neighbors come together and celebrate this auspicious day as one.
As with most Hindu festivals, a pooja of the deities is a must.
This is followed by a communal meal, song, dance and the exchange of wishes.
Attires during Gowardhan Pooja
The costumes of the celebrants vary from region to region and there is no standard attire that all must wear.
However, conforming to Hindu tradition, the celebrants ensure that their attires are ethnic Indian and modest.
While the women wear sarees (preferably) or salwar kameez, the men can either wear white or cream colored shirts with pants or kurtas and pyjamas.
The sarees worn by the women are colorful as there is no set palette preference for this day.
Within the rural or semi-rural regions of the country, celebrants do wear costumes that are specific to their state.
and Global Influence
The celebration of Gowardhan Puja is not just restricted to India.
New Zealand is among some of the other countries where this festival is very popular.
Across the globe, poojas are conducted on this day and Lord Krishna is worshiped.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Govardhan also translates to the blessings (vardhan) given to human by the cow (go) which is a sacred being in the Hindu culture.
- Many communities also worship the cow on this day.
- Besides creating a hillock of food, people also create hillocks of cow dung and celebrate this day by dancing around this hillock.
- Govardhan Pooja is also symbolic of the gifts that nature gives to human beings and how they must be conserved and cared for.
Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja holds extreme importance in Hindu religion.
This festival exemplifies the nature and the human beings.
According to the Hindu Calendar, Govardhan Puja or Annakoot is commemorated on the first day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. This festival is celebrated throughout the country, but its essence reaches acme in North India specially in the areas of Vraj Bhumi comprising of Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandgaon, Gokul, and Barsana.
The above mentioned places are significant with respect to the festival as here itself, Lord Krishna encouraged the people of Gokul for Govardhan Pooja and zapped the arrogance of Lord Indra.
Govardhan Puja Date and Scriptures
Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the first day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik and it can be deduced in the following way-
1. Govardhan Pooja should be celebrated on the first day of bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. However, there’s a condition to it, as per the sacred texts, the moon should not rise at night within the given time period of Puja Muhurat.
2. If on the first day of bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik at the time of sunset, there is a probability that Moon would rise then Govardhan Puja should be done on the day before.
3. If at the time of sunrise Pratipada date prevails and there is no sign of Moon rise then, Govardhan Pooja should be celebrated on the very same day. And if it is not so, then Govardhan Puja should be done on the previous day.
4. When Pratipada date prevails upto 9 muhurat after the sunrise no matter there is a moon rise in the evening but there should be a non existence of complete moon rise. In this condition Govardhan Puja should be celebrated on the same day.
Govardhan Puja Rules and Procedure
Govardhan Puja is very significant in the life of the people of India.
There is also a tradition of worshiping Lord Varuna, Indra and Agni on this particular day.
On this day, Govardhan Parvat, Godhan indicating cow and Lord Krishna holds uttermost importance.
This festival proclaims us a message that human life is largely dependent on the basic elements and resources of nature and hence, we should be respectful and thankful to our Mother Nature.
It is Govardhan Pooja, through which we express our respect towards the natural resources which we procure.
1. On the day of Govardhan Pooja, Govardhan made from cow dung is made and are bedecked with flowers. Usually Govardhan Puja is done either in the morning or in the evening. During the Pooja, water, fruits, incense sticks and oblation are offered to Govardhan. Also on this very day, cow-bull and animals used for agricultural purposes are also worshiped.
2. An effigy of Govardhan Ji is made from cow dung on the ground and a clay lamp is placed on the naval. Put milk, curd, gangajal, honey, crystallized sugar (bataashe) in the lamp during the puja time and after that prasad is distributed.
3. After the puja, everyone hails for Govardhan Ji while revolving around the idol. While doing this, water from a vessel is made to spill and the revolution is completed by sowing the barley on the ground.
4. Govardhan Giri is known as a form of God and worshiping him on this day strengthens you financially, auspicious for the betterment of children, and for enhancing the cow milk.
5. On the day of Govardhan Pooja, Lord Vishwakarma is also worshiped. On this occasion, machines are also worshiped in the factories and industries.
Govardhan Puja Ceremonies
1. The festival of Govardhan Puja is a dedication to nature and Lord Krishna. On this occasion religious ceremonies and bhandara (a feast for all) are organised in the temples throughout the country. After the puja, food is distributed among the people as Prasad.
2. Revolving around Govardhan Parvat on the day of Govardhan Pooja has a significant thrust. It is believed that by making the revolutions, blessings of Lord Krishna is seeked.
Legend Behind Govardhan Puja
The significance of Govardhan Puja has been described and elaborated in the Vishnu Purana.
It is believed that Lord Indra was high handed with his powers, so in order to shatter his arrogance, Lord Krishna came to the front.
According to a myth, once people in Gokul were preparing various delicacies and were singing songs with great enthusiasm.
Seeing this, Bal Krishna asked Maa Yashoda that for which occasion people are making preparations.
Maa Yashoda answered that they are worshiping Lord Indra.
Then, again Krishna asked Maa Yashoda that why do they worship Lord Indra. Maa Yashoda answered that they receive a good downpour, fodder for cows and production of cereals by the grace of Lord Indra.
On listening to his mother, Krishna said that if it is so then they should worship Govardhan Parvat because cows feed on the grasses and plants & trees form the reasons for good rainfall.
People of Gokul agreed to the Krishna’s context and they started the Puja.
On witnessing this, Lord Indra became indignant and in order to avenge for his insult started torrential rains in Gokul.
On seeing this heavy downpour, people of Gokul were terrified and panic stricken.
Then, Lord Krishna by exhibiting his powers lifted the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger and made the people of Gokul to come beneath the Govardhan Parvat.
Observing this, Lord Indra made rain more and more heavy, but even after 7 continuous days of extreme rainfall people of Gokul were safe enough.
Then, Lord Indra realised that the person confronting him is not an ordinary person.
When Lord Indra discovered that he was challenging Lord Krishna, then Lord Indra apologised to Lord Krishna and he himself worshiped Lord Krishna.
This is how began the worship and the essence of Govardhan Parvat.
On the day of Govardhan Pooja, revolution around the Govardhan Parvat is very consequential.
Govardhan Parvat is situated in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh where every year lakhs of devotees visit there to make revolutions around the Govardhan Parvat.
Annakoot for Govardhan Puja
On the occasion of Govardhan Pooja, Annakoot is organised in the temples.
Annakoot means mixture of various cereals which is used as an offering for Lord Krishna in order to worship him.
At some places, khichdi of pearl millet is prepared and in addition to this Puri is also prepared.
Together with Annakoot, sweets made from milk and various delicacies are prepared to offer as ‘bhoga’ to Lord Krishna.
After the Puja, these delicacies are distributed among the devotees.
In various temples, the during the occasion of Annakoot all night vigil, songs & dance is also performed and a prosperous life is yearned by the adoration of Lord Krishna.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Govardhan famous?
It is believed that Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Parvat to protect villagers and animals from heavy rains.
These rains were invoked by Lord Indra to punish the villagers for not appeasing him.
2. How long did Krishna hold Govardhan?
Lord Krishna held the Govardhan Parvat for seven days.
3. How old was Krishna when he lifted Govardhan?
Krishna was only 7 years and a few months old when he lifted the Govardhan Parvat.
4. Who lifted Govardhan Parvat?
Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Parvat.
5. Which demon was killed by Krishna?
Lord Krishna killed the horse-demon, Keshi.
6. Why was Indra angry with Krishna?
The villagers used to perform Puja to please Indra and attain his blessings for ample rain, for a good harvest.
Krishna convinced the villagers not to perform that Puja, which angered Lord Indra.
7. Where is Govardhan Parvat now?
Govardhan Parvat is situated in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh.
Puja Vidhi for Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is a Hindu festival celebrated the day after Diwali in which Lord Krishna is worshipped.
The festival is also called Annakoot and literally means ‘a mountain of food’.
The story behind this is that the villagers of Braj were making preparations to worship Lord India.
When Lord Krishna who was a child at that time asked them why the villagers said the arrangements were to please Lord Indra so that he would give rains for their crops to flourish.
Lord Krishna asked them to leave these arrangements and only do their work.
This angered Lord Indra who unleashed the fury of the rains upon the people.
Lord Krishna proceeded to lift the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger, under which the people took shelter for seven days.
When Lord Indra realised what was happening, he recalled the rains.
Puja Vidhi
On this day people prepare Chappan Bhog (56) types of food made with wheat, rice, and gram flour.
Typically, a hillock is made from cow dung or mud which represents Govardhan hill, and is decorated with flowers and sometimes a peacock feather.
The devotees take rounds of his hillock, praying to Lord Krishna to always protect them.
For the puja, you require two sugarcane sticks, fresh milk, yogurt, batasha, peda, and laddoos in addition to roli and rice.
Earthen lamps or diyas are lit all around the hillock.
The sugarcane sticks are the main offering made to the hillock. Usually, the women of the house observe a day-long fast on this day which is broken by eating meethe chawal (sweet rice).
A silver coin is also worshipped during the puja.
The devotees entreat Lord Krishna to always provide them with an abundance of food in their houses.
Govardhan puja can be done both in the morning and the evening.
People wash the idol of Lord Krishna with unboiled milk and decorate it with roli and rice.
Some batasha is kept on the plate with coins which are then distributed to the needy.
The following mantra is chanted while performing the puja to please Lord Krishna
|| श्रीगिर्रिराजधरणप्रभुतेरीशरण ||
Lakshmi Katha is also read out and the puja is concluded by presenting the person performing the puja with a silver coin and sweets.
In Gujarat, Govardhan Puja also signifies a new year known as Padwa.
According to Hindu mythology, this day was also when Lord Vishnu defeated the demon king Bali.
In several parts of India, the day after Diwali is also celebrated as the Vishwakarma day when machines and tools which people work with are worshipped.
The day signifies a new beginning and the victory of good over evil.
Govardhan Puja Story
The Hindu Religion is known for its different Puja rituals.
One such famous and important Puja ritual is Govardhan Puja.
Govardhan Puja is celebrated immediately after the main Diwali Puja and commemorates Shri Krishna’s triumph over Lord Indra.
It is celebrated on the first lunar day of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik.
It is the fourth day of Diwali and marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat Calendar.
Govardhan Puja is also known as Bali Pratipada or Annakuta Pooja.
It is believed that on Annakut Puja day, God Krishna defeated the rain God, Indra.
Govardhan Puja is mainly celebrated by preparing cereals such as rice, wheat, curry of gram flour, and leafy vegetables.
This is offered to Krishna. Shri Krishna is believed to bless his devotees on the day of Govardhan Puja.
Govardhan Puja is celebrated as Bali Padva in Maharashtra to mark the victory of Vamana (incarnation of god Vishnu) over the demon king Bali. In Gujarat, Govardhan Pooja is celebrated as New Year’s Day.
Besides Gujarat and Maharashtra, Annakut Puja is celebrated in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
The Govardhan Puja is particularly prominent among the Vallabh Sampradaya (Pushtimarg), the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, and the Gaudiya Sampradaya of Chaitanya.
Govardhan Pooja Story
The story of Govardhan Puja relates to the Govardhan Parbat.
Govardhan Parbat was a small hillock in Braj (Vrindavan), near Mathura.
According to Vishnu Puran, the people of Gokul used to worship Lord Indra as they believed it was Indra who provided them with the rains necessary for their lives and livelihood.
However, Bhagwan Krishna changed this belief of the people and told them that Govardhan Parbat was responsible for all the rains.
So, they should worship Govardhan Parbat instead of Lord Indra.
Hearing this advice from Lord Krishna, people started worshipping the Govardhan Parbat.
Seeing this, Indra became very angry with the people of Braj.
There was intense rainfall that enveloped all parts of Gokul, including Braj.
However, Lord Krishna came to rescue people and saved their lives by lifting the Govardhan Parbat on his little finger.
People stood under the Govardhan Parbat and took shelter from the rains.
Finally, Indra realized his mistake and prayed to Shri Krishna to forgive him.
Krishna then pardoned Indra and told people to observe the puja ceremony in honor of Govardhan Parbat.
From that day, people started to celebrate Govardhan Puja.
The day is celebrated in Maharashtra as Bali Pratipada or Bali Padva.
It commemorates the victory of Vamana (the incarnation of God Vishnu), who defeated and pushed the demon king Bali to Patal Lok.
It is also the day King Vikramaditya was coroneted and known as Vikram Samvat.
The day is celebrated as the beginning of the Gujarati New Year.
Govardhan Puja Celebrations
Govardhan Puja is celebrated in various parts of India.
However, it is a major festival of the people of Gokul and Mathura.
They celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm and pleasure.
People do Govardhan Parikrama and offer prayers to Govardhan Parbat.
They make a form of Govardhan Parbat with cow dung and adorn it with flowers and worship.
People also worship cows on this day.
They prepare meals made out of leafy vegetables and offer them to Shri Krishna.
The custom of making 56 or 108 dishes is also offered as “Bhog” to God Krishna.
It is known as “Annakuta.”
They bathe the idols of Bhagwan Krishna with milk and adorn them with new clothes and jewelry.
They offer prayers, Bhog, and Aarti to Lord Krishna. People visit the temples of Lord Krishna in large numbers.
A lot of cultural events are organized, and Prasad is distributed among people.
People wear ethnic Indian attire conforming to Hindu tradition.
Women wear saree or salwar kameez, while men wear white or cream-colored shirts, kurtas, and pajamas.
Govardhan Puja Date
Govardhan Puja will be celebrated on 14th November, Tuesday
Govardhan Puja Pratahkala Muhurat: 06:26 AM to 08:37 AM
Pratipada Tithi Begins: 02:56 PM on 13th November
Pratipada Tithi Ends: at 02:36 PM on 14th November
Govardhan Puja reminds us that we should conserve the gifts of nature to the best of our abilities that are vital for our lives on Earth.
It also signifies that God will protect all those who take sole refuge in him.
GOVARDHAN PUJA SAMAGRI
Goverdhan Puja as it is also known, is a Hindu festival in which devotees prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian food to Bhagwan (God) Shri Krishna as a mark of gratitude.
For Vaishnavas, this day commemorates the incident in the Bhagavata Puran when Bhagwan Shri Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to provide the villagers of Vrindavan shelter from torrential rains.
The incident is seen to represent how God will protect all devotees who take singular refuge in him.
Devotees offer a mountain of food, metaphorically representing the Govardhan Hill, to God as a ritual remembrance and to renew their faith in taking refuge in God.
The festival is observed by most of Hindu denominations all over India and abroad.
For Vaishnavas this is one of the important festivals.
For the Vallabh Sampradaya (Pushtimarg), the Gaudiya Sampradaya of Chaitanya, and the Swaminarayan Sampradaya etc among others.
NAME Unit
Sugarcane Cubes 10 Piece
Batasha (Batasha) 250 Gram
Chawal (Rice) 100 Gram
Clay Deepak 5 Pieces
Cow Dung (Mud) 1 Unit
Curds (Yogurt) 100 Gram
One Silver Coin 5 Gram
Govardhan Puja
The Govardhan Puja is celebrated across north and central parts of India, including UP, Bihar, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, with great fervour and enthusiasm. Like most Indian festivals, the Govardhan Puja has a mythological association.
This pictorial guide will give you the key facts about the festival, its significance and steps to perform the puja rituals.
Govardhan Puja history
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Govardhan Puja is the celebration of his victory against Lord Indra.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna raised the entire Govardhan hill on his little finger to protect the villagers from the wrath of Lord Indra who intended to destroy them through rain and storm.
Hindus celebrate this day to show their gratitude to the Govardhan hill.
Govardhan Puja date
The Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the fourth day of the Diwali festival in the month of Kartik.
According to the English calendar, the date may fall anytime between October and November.
In , the Govardhan Puja will be observed on November 13.
Kusum Sarovar, a historical sandstone monument on the holy Govardhan hill between Govardhan and Radha Kund, Mathura, UP.
Govardhan Puja items
To observe the puja, miniature representations of the Govardhan hill are created by the devotees, primarily using cow dung, flowers and other materials.
Govardhan Puja special treat: Annakut
During the Annakut Puja, devotees offer Chappan Bhog to Lord Krishna, featuring 56 food items. Vegetarian dishes and sweets are an integral part of the Annakut.
Annakut sabzi is prepared with different vegetables and ingredients on the occasion of Govardhan Puja.
Govardhan Puja in 10 steps
Step 1: Clean the area where you want to perform the puja.
Step 2: Arrange the puja items, including an idol or picture of Lord Krishna, cow dung or clay to build a representation of the Govardhan hill, flowers, fruits, sweets, incense sticks, a lamp, camphor and chandhan.
Step 3: Use the cow dung to create a representation of Govardhan hill. Decorate it with flowers, leaves and rangoli.
Step 4: Prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes and sweets as an offering to Lord Krishna. Arrange the food items in a circular pattern around the representation of Govardhan Hill, creating the Annakut.
Step 5: After taking a bath, wear clean clothes.
Step 6: Light the lamp and incense sticks.
Step 7: Offer flowers, fruits and other traditional offerings to the deity.
Step 8: Perform aarti to Lord Krishna
Step 9: Circumambulate around the representation of Govardhan hill, expressing gratitude for its blessings.
Step 10: After the puja, distribute the prasad to family members, friends and devotees.
List of items used during Govardhan Puja
- Idol or picture of Lord Krishna
- Cow dung or clay
- Flowers, especially marigolds
- Fruits like bananas, apples, oranges and coconuts
- Sweets like laddoos, pedas and kheer
- Incense sticks
- Diya
- Camphor
- Ganga jal
- Bell
- Conch shell
- Aarti plate
- Rangoli materials like coloured powders, rice flour or flower petals