Govardhan Puja in India

Govardhan Puja is a Hindu festival celebrated across India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, and some parts of Rajasthan. It usually takes place the day after Diwali, which is the festival of lights.

Historical Significance

The history of Govardhan Puja is rooted in the legend from the Bhagavata Purana. According to this ancient text, the people of Vrindavan used to worship Lord Indra, believing that he was responsible for providing rain for their crops. However, Lord Krishna convinced them to worship Mount Govardhan instead because it provided them with essential resources such as herbs, pastures for their cattle, and water. In response to this slight, Lord Indra sent torrential rains to flood Vrindavan. Krishna famously lifted Mount Govardhan on his little finger and provided shelter for all the inhabitants and cattle of the town until Indra relented. This act demonstrated divine protection and encouraged devotion over ritualistic offerings.

Traditions

On Govardhan Puja:

• Annakut: Devotees prepare an "Annakut" or "mountain of food," with hundreds of dishes offered to Lord Krishna as a mark of gratitude.
• Govardhan Parvat Pooja: People make hillocks out of cow dung or mud symbolizing Mount Govardhan and decorate them with flowers. They then perform puja (worship) by offering food to these hillocks.
• Prayers and Songs: Devotional songs and prayers are performed in praise of Lord Krishna.
• Circumambulation: Devotees may also perform 'Parikrama' (circumambulation) around actual hills or mountains considered representations of Govardhan Parvat.

What People Do

On this day:

• Many visit temples dedicated to Krishna.
• They partake in communal meals comprising prasad from the Annakut.
• Cows are also decorated and worshipped since they hold a special significance in Hinduism especially related to Krishna who is often depicted with cows.

Govardhan Puja reflects themes like nature worship, gratitude towards God's protection, and community celebrations through shared feasts.