Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut Puja, is an important Hindu festival celebrated enthusiastically, especially in North India. It falls a day after Diwali, which raises the question: Why do we celebrate Govardhan Puja after Diwali?
This festival marks the worship of Lord Krishna, who saved the people of Vrindavan from torrential rain by lifting the Govardhan mountain. This day holds immense spiritual significance and commemorates Krishna's divine intervention and teachings.
Significance of Govardhan Puja
The main reason why we celebrate Govardhan Puja revolves around an ancient episode from the life of Lord Krishna, recorded in Hindu scriptures.
According to the Bhagavata Purana, the people of Vrindavan used to worship Lord Indra, the god of rain, for prosperity. However, Krishna advised them to worship the Govardhan Hill instead, as it was the source of their nourishment and livelihood.
Lord Indra, angered by this, unleashed a devastating storm on Vrindavan. To protect the villagers, Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger, providing shelter to the people and animals.
Why Do We Celebrate Govardhan Puja After Diwali?
Why do we celebrate Govardhan Puja after Diwali? The answer lies in the sequence of events in Hindu mythology.
The festival also aligns with the harvest season, marking the beginning of a new agricultural cycle. During this time, fresh crops are offered to the gods as a symbol of gratitude.
The Annakut, or "mountain of food," is prepared and offered to Krishna, symbolizing the abundance of nature. This tradition explains why we celebrate Govardhan Puja after Diwali, as it represents a fresh start in both the spiritual and material aspects of life.
Govardhan Puja 2024 Date
On this day, devotees build a small replica of the Govardhan Hill using cow dung or clay, symbolizing the hill lifted by Krishna. They also offer food items like rice, sweets, and vegetables in a grand feast known as Annakut, which is distributed among the community.
Rituals and Customs of Govardhan Puja
The rituals of Govardhan Puja vary across different regions, but the core practices remain consistent. Most homes and temples depict Govardhan Mountain, often using natural things such as mud, flowers, and food.
Devotees worship this hill, offering a variety of dishes to Lord Krishna. Cows, which are considered sacred, are also worshipped on this day.
Annakut Prasad, which includes a variety of dishes, is the main attraction of this festival. The festival also promotes the values of nature conservation and humility, reflecting Krishna’s teachings.
The Spiritual Message of Govardhan Puja
The underlying message of Why Do We Celebrate Govardhan Puja goes beyond the mythological story. It teaches us to respect nature and reminds us that humility and devotion are essential for a balanced life.
Krishna’s act of lifting the Govardhan Hill is symbolic of divine protection, emphasizing that faith in the right principles brings peace and prosperity.
Conclusion: Why We Celebrate Govardhan Puja
In conclusion, Why do we celebrate Govardhan Puja? It is a festival deeply rooted in the teachings of Lord Krishna, reflecting the significance of humility, devotion, and nature worship.
The question Why do we celebrate Govardhan Puja After Diwali is answered by the mythological sequence of events and the festival’s alignment with the agricultural calendar.
As we look forward to the Govardhan Puja 2024 date, we are reminded of the importance of celebrating the bounties of nature and offering gratitude for divine protection and blessings.
