Govardhan Puja 2024: Muhurat timings, rituals, and traditional wishes
Govardhan Puja, celebrated the day after Diwali’s Laxmi Puja, is an important Hindu festival that will be observed on Thursday, November 2, 2024. This day holds special meaning for devotees of Lord Krishna, honouring his divine act of protection over the people of Gokul.
The Story Behind Govardhan Puja
The origin of Govardhan Puja is rooted in the tale of Lord Krishna shielding villagers and cattle from a relentless storm sent by the rain god, Lord Indra. According to Hindu tradition, Krishna encouraged the villagers to worship Mount Govardhan instead of conducting rituals for Indra. Angered, Indra unleashed heavy rains, but Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan on his little finger, offering shelter to everyone until Indra acknowledged his error. This story exemplifies Krishna’s role as a “protector of dharma,” revered by his followers as a divine guardian.
Govardhan Puja is also called Annakut, meaning «mountain of food,» as a vast array of dishes is offered to Lord Krishna in gratitude for his blessings and protection. The spread includes a variety of sweets, savouries, and other foods, representing Krishna’s love for food and the abundance that nature provides.
Govardhan Puja: Rituals and Muhurat
The rituals of Govardhan Puja often involve creating a symbolic Mount Govardhan using cow dung, decorated with flowers and other items. Devotees gather to perform prayers, sing devotional songs, and sometimes reenact Krishna’s divine feat, all in deep reverence.
During the puja, traditional offerings like the Chhappan
