Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut Puja, is celebrated the day after Diwali. In 2024, Diwali falls on October 31, making Govardhan Puja take place on Saturday, November 2. This festival honors Lord Krishna’s victory over Lord Indra, the god of rain. As we prepare for this significant occasion, here’s everything you need to know.
Govardhan Puja 2024: Key Dates and Timing
This year, Govardhan Puja will be held on November 2. According to Drik Panchang, the Pratipada Tithi will start at 6:16 PM on November 1 and conclude at 8:21 PM on November 2. The auspicious timing for the morning (Pratahkala) puja is from 6:14 AM to 8:33 AM on November 2. The evening (Sayankala) puja can be performed between 3:33 PM and 5:53 PM on the same day.
The Story Behind Govardhan Puja
During his childhood in Braj, Lord Krishna noticed that the local people were worshipping Lord Indra to celebrate the autumn season. Displeased by this, Krishna encouraged the villagers to worship the one supreme God instead. In response to this, Lord Indra unleashed severe storms and heavy rains. To save the villagers, Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill with his little finger, providing them shelter. After enduring seven days of relentless rain, Indra finally conceded defeat. This event is celebrated annually through Govardhan Puja, commemorating Krishna’s bravery.
Significance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja, or Annakut Puja, is dedicated to honoring Lord Krishna for his protection of his followers. Devotees prepare a large heap of food shaped like the Govardhan Hill and offer it to Krishna. This food is later distributed as prasad among the worshippers.
Rituals of Govardhan Puja
Devotees begin their day with an early morning bath. They then create a hill from cow dung and walk around it, singing hymns in praise of Lord Krishna. After offering a feast to the deity, the food is shared as prasad among everyone present. Participating in these rituals is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and good health to the devotees.
