The Importance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut, is a prominent Hindu festival celebrated the day after Diwali. This festival honors Lord Krishna, the Govardhan Mountain, and cattle, symbolizing the protection of nature and prosperity. Govardhan Puja is observed across India, with a special reverence for Lord Krishna’s protection of the people of Gokul by lifting the Govardhan Mountain.
The Story Behind Govardhan Puja
According to ancient lore, Lord Indra, the king of the heavens, once unleashed a fierce storm on Gokul due to his anger and ego. To protect the villagers and their cattle, Lord Krishna lifted the entire Govardhan Mountain on his little finger, providing a shield against the torrential rain. Indra’s pride was humbled, and thus, the tradition of Govardhan Puja began to honor Krishna’s protection.
The Rituals of Govardhan Puja
On this day, devotees make a symbolic Govardhan Mountain out of cow dung, representing the sacred mountain, and worship it. Particularly in rural areas, the festival also includes rituals honoring cows and cattle, vital to agricultural life. Offerings of grains, pulses, fruits, sweets, and special dishes are presented to the Lord as part of the Annakut, or “mountain of food.” People decorate their homes and cattle sheds, celebrating Govardhan’s essence of protection and abundance.
The Message of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja reminds us of the importance of nature and environmental preservation. Through this celebration, Lord Krishna teaches the need to respect nature and care for animals. It conveys a message of responsibility toward our natural resources, emphasizing that true prosperity lies in harmony with nature and gratitude for its blessings.
