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Introduction Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut or Govardhan Parvatotsav, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm. It is an important part of the five-day Diwali celebrations and holds a special place in Hindu culture. This festival commemorates the legendary event when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan.
Govardhan Puja, or Annakut, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the divine act of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill. This day symbolizes gratitude towards nature and the acknowledgment of its vital role in sustaining life.
People prepare a variety of food items and offer them in the form of a mountain of food called Annakut, symbolizing Govardhan Hill. This tradition reflects the importance of showing respect to nature and practicing humility and devotion.
The story of Govardhan Puja is derived from Hindu mythology and is deeply rooted in the teachings of Lord Krishna. It conveys key messages about humility, environmental protection, and faith.
| Key Events in the Govardhan Puja Story | Details |
| Devotion to Lord Indra | The villagers of Vrindavan worshipped Lord Indra, believing he controlled rainfall for their crops. |
| Krishna's Advice | Young Krishna suggested they stop worshipping Indra and instead pay homage to Govardhan Hill, which provided fertile land, resources, and protection. |
| Indra’s Anger | Enraged by this, Lord Indra unleashed a furious storm upon Vrindavan. |
| Krishna’s Divine Protection | Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill with his little finger, sheltering the villagers and their cattle under it. |
| Indra’s Realization | After seven days of non-stop rain, Lord Indra realized his mistake, withdrew the storm, and accepted Krishna’s supreme power. |
| Gratitude and Celebration | The villagers celebrated this event by preparing a mountain of food (Annakut) to thank Lord Krishna. |
The story highlights the values of gratitude, humility, and environmental respect.
Govardhan Puja is observed on the fourth day of Diwali, usually falling in October or November. It takes place on Pratipada Tithi (the first day of the lunar fortnight) in the Hindu month of Kartika.
| Year | Govardhan Puja Date |
| 2025 | October 23, 2025 |
| 2026 | November 11, 2026 |
| 2027 | October 31, 2027 |
Since the date is based on the lunar calendar, it's important to check with a Hindu Panchang (calendar) for the exact timing of rituals each year.
During Diwali, various traditions are observed across India. Govardhan Puja has distinct rituals that align with the broader Diwali celebrations.
The celebration of Govardhan Puja holds deep spiritual and cultural significance:
| Purpose | Significance |
| Honoring Krishna’s Divine Act | The puja commemorates Lord Krishna’s protection of the villagers by lifting Govardhan Hill. |
| Teaching Humility | The story reminds us that humility, not arrogance, is the key to true strength. |
| Gratitude to Nature | Govardhan Puja expresses appreciation for nature’s bounty and its role in human survival. |
| Environmental Awareness | The festival encourages people to respect and conserve natural resources. |
| Fostering Unity | The act of preparing Annakut and sharing food promotes community bonding. |
Govardhan Puja is not just a mythological celebration but also imparts meaningful values:
Govardhan Puja is a beautiful reminder of gratitude, humility, and spiritual growth. As we celebrate Govardhan Puja 2025, let’s reflect on Lord Krishna’s teachings and embrace values like kindness, compassion, and respect for nature.
By celebrating this festival with devotion, we not only honor our rich cultural heritage but also reinforce the message of harmony with nature and selfless service to others. Whether you're preparing an Annakut feast or participating in Govardhan Puja rituals, this festival serves as a meaningful reminder of faith, unity, and the power of gratitude.
Govardhan Puja is a Hindu festival celebrated to honor Lord Krishna's act of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from Lord Indra's wrath.
The festival commemorates Lord Krishna's lifting of the Govardhan Hill to shelter villagers from a rainstorm caused by Lord Indra's anger.
Govardhan Puja falls on the fourth day of the Diwali festival, typically in October or November, on the first lunar day of Kartika.
Govardhan Puja is an integral part of Diwali celebrations, emphasizing gratitude and humility while celebrating the bounties of nature.
It's celebrated to express gratitude to nature, promote environmental awareness, and remember Lord Krishna's teachings of humility and devotion.
Govardhan Puja signifies unity, community, and reverence for nature, offering valuable lessons on righteousness and spirituality.