Govardhan Puja the celebration on 4th Day of Diwali celebrations, also recognized as Annakut, marks a significant Hindu festival observed on the first day of the Shukla Paksha in Kartik. In 2023, Govardhan Puja is on November 14, it is celebrated in Pratipada Tithi. The festival celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Indra.
The festival commemorates the day Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill, shielding the villagers of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Indra, often punished the people of Vrindavan. One day, he sent a heavy downpour to drown them. Krishna then lifted Govardhan hill to protect people of Vrindavan. Showing all might and strength Lord Krishna humbled Lord Indra. Govardhan Puja is a celebration of Krishna’s victory over Indra and a moment to honor the earth, symbolized by the Govardhan mountain.
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When to celebrate Govardhan Puja in 2023 ?
Tithi : The Govardhan Puja is celebrated during Pratipada Tithi. In 2023 Pratipada Tithi begins on November 13, 2023 – 02:56 PM and it ends on November 14, 2023 – 02:36 PM.
Muhurat : The Govardhan Puja Muhurat for Morning Puja is on November 14, 2023 – 05:54 AM to 08:09 AM. The Dyuta Krida Muhurat is on November 14, 2023.
This year , Amavasya Tithi is falling on November 13, 2023 hence Govardhan Puja can be celebrated on November 14, 2023.
Govardhan Puja : Significance
Govardhan Puja holds profound significance for Hindus on multiple levels. Firstly, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil, mirroring Lord Krishna’s triumph over Indra’s arrogance.
Secondly, it serves as a moment to honor the earth, with the Govardhan mountain representing the earth’s generosity. On this day, Hindus express gratitude for the earth’s resources and seek its continued protection.
Thirdly, the festival fosters a sense of community and unity. Devotees join together to worship Lord Krishna, celebrating their shared faith.
How to Celebrate Govardhan Puja at Home
For those unable to visit a temple, celebrating Govardhan Puja at home is simple yet meaningful. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Make a Govardhan mountain using cow dung or eco-friendly materials.
- Decorate the mountain with flowers, fruits, and other offerings.
- The offering items such as rice, kheer, batashe, water, milk, paan, Kesar, and flowers to Lord Govardhan should be done.
- Devotees are encouraged to pray to Lord Krishna after arranging all the necessary samagri.
- Puja Samagri for Govardhan Puja includes wheat, rice, Panchamrit, Annakutta sabzi made with various vegetables, and curry made from gram flour and leafy vegetables.
- Place an idol of Lord Krishna before the mountain.
- Illuminate a lamp and offer incense sticks to Lord Krishna.
- Engage in bhajans and mantra recitations, paying homage to Krishna.
- Offer prayers, seeking blessings from Lord Krishna.
- After the puja, share the food offerings with family and friends.
Other traditions associated with Govardhan Puja encompass:
- Circumambulating the Govardhan mountain, a gesture of respect for the earth and Krishna.
- Indulging in 56 varieties of food, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
- Gifting sacred offerings to cows, considering their revered status in Hinduism.
Some more tips for Puja:
- Clean and decorate your home with flowers and rangoli.
- Prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes for the Annakut.
- Extend invitations to family and friends to join in the festivities.
- Sing bhajans and recite mantras, immersing yourself in devotion to Lord Krishna.
- Offer prayers, seeking the divine blessings of Lord Krishna.
- Distribute the food offerings among your loved ones.