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Govardhan Puja is also referred to as Annakut, a religious festival observed in Hinduism the day following Diwali. It has a lot of religious connotation apart from being a popular festival in the northern region of India. Thus, it is still quite crucial to ask about the very nature and history of Govardhan Puja 2024. Now it is the time to get acquainted with the story of this festival and its relevance in the modern world of cultures.
The Story Behind Govardhan Puja: Govardhan Parvat Story
In Hindu mythology there is a popular story related to the festival of Govardhan Puja though it does not literally mean the killing of a demon. As per the Govardhan Parvat story once Lord Krishna saw that the people of Gokul Mukhi were making elaborate preparations to feed and offer goods to lord Indra, the god of rain. Having realized it, wise and merciful Krishna suggested the villagers to instead worship Govardhan Hill (Parvat). He pointed out that, as such Govardhan Parvat helped in offering the following to the needs of the village; farming, grazing and daily activities.
Lord Indra, angered by this, sent a furious storm to destroy the village. However, Krishna, in his divine form, lifted the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger and sheltered the villagers under it for seven days. This act of protection made the people realize Krishna’s divine powers, and they began to worship Govardhan Hill with great devotion. This is why Govardhan Puja is celebrated every year to commemorate the victory of Lord Krishna over Lord Indra’s pride.
History and Significance of Govardhan Puja
The history and significance of Govardhan Puja lie in the deeper message of the festival. It teaches the importance of nature, humility, and gratitude. By worshiping Govardhan Parvat, people show their respect for nature and the elements that sustain life. The celebration is also symbolic of humility and the belief that one must always act with kindness and compassion towards all living beings.
Govardhan Puja 2024 will be celebrated on November 2, marking the victory of good over evil and the protection of life through faith. On this day, devotees prepare a variety of food dishes, known as Annakut, to offer to Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill as a gesture of gratitude for all that nature provides.
Celebrations of Govardhan Puja
The celebrations of Govardhan Puja vary across different regions of India, but one common practice is the creation of a small replica of Govardhan Hill using cow dung, decorated with flowers and grains. People worship this model by offering sweets, fruits, and food. In many temples, especially those dedicated to Lord Krishna, large amounts of food (Annakut) are prepared and distributed to devotees as prasad.
Places to Visit in Govardhan Parikrama
Among all the places associated with Govardhan Puja the most important is Govardhan Hill situated near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. Several followers of the faith partake in a religious procession known as Govardhan Parikrama around the hill. This parikrama road is about 21 km long, and it is highly sacred; most people take this journey on foot.
This is apart from the Govardhan temples in Mathura and Vrindavan where people go to celebrate the puja. The place is very colorful in this day. People from all over the country come here to take blessings and enjoy the festivals.
What is the Weight of Govardhan Parvat?
While there is no definitive answer to what is the weight of Govardhan Parvat, the mythological stories suggest that it is a massive mountain that even Lord Krishna lifted with ease. In reality, Govardhan Hill is a small but significant hill that stands around 25 meters tall today.
Conclusion
It is a festival of devotion, respect, and raises the value of earth in our life. This is because the story of the boy Lord Krishna which lifted Govardhan Parvat impasses people to lead a compassionate life respecting nature and being devoted to god. On the occasion of Govardhan Puja 2024, let us recall these principles and say thank you for the nature’s grace bestowed to us.
