The next day of Diwali is celebrated as Govardhan Puja in many parts of India. On this day, Lord Krishna defeated Lord Indra. Sometimes, you may get one day gap for the puja. The other name of this puja is Annakuta puja. On this auspicious day, foods made of wheat, rice, curry made of gram, and flour are served to Lord Krishna.
Puja Timings
If you want to offer puja on this day, you must observe specific tithi and timings. This year it will be celebrated on 2nd November. It will be Sunday. Dyuta Krida will be on 02nd November. The tithi will begin on 6.34 am on 25th October and end on 05.35 pm on 2nd November. You have to make all the preparations for the puja by this time. Many times Govardhan puja coincides with Gujarati New Year. This puja is celebrated in many other parts of India.
In Maharashtra, this day is also celebrated as Bali Pratapada. People of this state commemorate this day with great pomp and show. During this festival, people light their houses with decorative items. It makes the festival much more attractive and better for the devotees.
About the Festival
As per the Hindu Mythology, the residents of Gokul worship Lord Indra. Lord Indra is also known as the God of Rain. It is known from various sources that Lord Krishna advised to worship Annakut Hill or Govardhan Parvat. Govardhan Parvat is worshipped to protect the people of this region from drastic climate and weather. Lord Kishna saved the people of this region from climatic disasters with a single finger. Thus from this day, Govardhan Puja started among the people of this region.
You have to follow a series of patterns during this festival. The festival continues for three days. You have to maintain all the rituals for the puja. Many habits were practiced during this period. In some parts, you will find people making an idol of Lord Krishna with the cow dung. It is then decorated with decorative items, including lights or lamps. Many families also make rangolis for this puja. The rangolis are made of coloured powder, sand, and even petals of flowers. This gives a unique look to the house.
The sculptures and idols made of cow dung are then bathed with milk and dressed in beautiful clothes and items. You will also love to view the look of the idol. You can also use precious stones and gems to add the glamour to the model. As per the Hindu families, the elderly members of the family consider Annakut as an essential part.
As the food is considered during this period, the devotees prepare 56 food items and serve them before Lord Krishna. Almost all the items are delicious, and they are first offered to the Lord. You will see that these food items are served in beautiful dishes. Many people clean their house and kitchen to prepare the 56 dishes. Most dishes are made with proper care and attention. Special care is made while selecting the ingredients.
FAQ
- What is Govardhan Puja?
- Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut Puja, is a Hindu festival that commemorates the lifting of Govardhan Hill by Lord Krishna to protect the residents of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra.
- When is Govardhan Puja celebrated?
- Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the fourth day of Diwali, which usually falls on the first lunar day of the Hindu calendar month of Kartika (October or November in the Gregorian calendar).
- What is the significance of Govardhan Puja?
- Govardhan Puja symbolizes the victory of faith and devotion over the forces of nature. It emphasizes the importance of nature and the duty to protect the environment.
- How do people celebrate Govardhan Puja in India?
- Devotees create a symbolic representation of the Govardhan Hill using cow dung or other materials. This representation is adorned with various food items, forming a mountain of offerings. A puja (ritual worship) is then performed to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.
- Why is food offered during Govardhan Puja?
- The offerings of food represent the Govardhan Hill, and the act of offering is a gesture of gratitude towards nature and the sustenance it provides. The food is later distributed as prasad (blessed food).
- Are there specific rituals associated with Govardhan Puja?
- The main ritual involves the creation of the Govardhan Hill replica, performing puja, and circumambulating it. Additionally, devotees participate in bhajans (devotional songs) and recite prayers dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Is Govardhan Puja celebrated across India?
- Yes, Govardhan Puja is celebrated in various parts of India, especially in North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab. It is an integral part of the Diwali festivities.
- Are there any traditional dishes associated with Govardhan Puja?
- Various sweets and vegetarian dishes are prepared as offerings during Govardhan Puja. The food items are chosen to symbolize the abundance of nature.
- Can people of all ages participate in Govardhan Puja celebrations?
- Yes, Govardhan Puja is a family-oriented festival, and people of all ages actively participate in the rituals and celebrations.
- Is there any environmental message associated with Govardhan Puja?
- Yes, Govardhan Puja carries an environmental message, emphasizing the need to protect and nurture nature. It highlights the interconnectedness between humanity and the environment.
- Are there any specific prayers or mantras recited during Govardhan Puja?
- Devotees often recite prayers and bhajans dedicated to Lord Krishna during Govardhan Puja. The Govardhan Puja Aarti is also an essential part of the ritual.
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