Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja is an annual celebration in India, taking place on November 15th in 2022. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who raised the mountain of Govardhan. The holiday signifies the victory of Krishna over Indra.

History

Govardhan is a mountain that gets its name from the Sanskrit words “go” meaning “cow” and “vardhan” meaning “food”. It is believed that worshipping Govardhan will bring mercy, favor and food gifts from the deity. On the day of the celebration, people express their gratitude to nature by offering dishes from 56 products.

Interesting facts

• Mount Govardhan symbolizes a step to heaven and many monks worship the hill to be closer to the deity.
• The hill is holy and it is believed that a liar and a person with a black soul will not be able to see its beauty.
• On top of the mountain are temples, rivers and ponds.
• After the festival, the food is distributed amongst the pilgrims.
• During the festival, replicas of Govardhan Hill are built in shrines.
• It goes on merrily until late at night. • The food is presented in clay pots and plates painted with bright colors.

How to take part

On the day of the celebration, a sacred animal – a cow – is worshipped. She is dressed in silk, fed with grass and made to go around Govardhan Hill. Then, people go to the temple to dip the figurine of the deity in milk, decorate it with diamonds and rich clothes. Prayers are then held and a large table is laid out with 56 vegetarian dishes, including vegetables, herbs, sweets and other food. This food is considered to be sacred and all believers are offered a share in it.

When is Govardhan Puja celebrated in 2023?

Govardhan Puja is observed on November 15 each year.

Observations