The fourth day, known as Goverdhan Puja, Balipratipada, or Annakut, commemorating Krishna’s defeat of Indra, the king of the gods, is also the first day of Karttika and the start of the new year in the Vikrama (Hindu) calendar. Merchants perform religious ceremonies and open new account books.
Govardhan Puja (Annakut Puja) or Bali Pratipada is a Hindu festival that is usually held a day after the main Diwali in the month of Kartik. Depending on the lunar cycles, there is sometimes a one day gap between Diwali and Govardhan Puja.
Govardhan Puja is celebrated as the day Lord Krishna defeated the God Indra.
Devotees celebrate Govardhan Puja by preparing a large variety of vegetarian food such as wheat, rice, curry of gram flour and leafy vegetables in order to offer them to Lord Krishna.
Why we celebrate ?
On this auspicious day, devotees offer their prayers to Lord Krishna as it is believed that today’s marks the victory of Krishna Kanhaiya over the arrogance of Lord Indra. Devotees also offer prayers to the pile of grains, which symbolizes the Govardhan mountain,”
Govardhan pooja which is also known as Annakut or Annakoot is a festival celebrated in India, basically it is an Hindu festival where devotees prepare and offers large variety of vegetarian food to their parmatmas (God) as a gesture of gratitude, and also to give their gods a vote of thanks and specially to worshiped Lord Krishna.
On this day, green vegetables, gram flour curries, and food composed of grains like wheat and rice are cooked and offered to Lord Krishna. For the Govardhan Puja, annakuts must be prepared, and the shape of the Govardhan is made from cow dung. However, parikrama is not considered part of the Govardhan Puja.
Significance of Goverdhan Pooja
“According to Bhagavad Puran, the people of Braj (the adjoining areas between Mathura and Vrindavan) used to worship Indra, the god of rain and storm, as well as the king of all gods during the autumn season, thanking him for the bountiful rains and good harvest. However, Krishna thought that instead of thanking a distant God, they should thank the Mount Govardhan that stood in the middle of the habitation.
Irked by people praying Govardhan, Indra decided to punish the locals with heavy torrential rain, it then when Krishna lifted the mountain to provide shelter and protection to the people. After much trial and tribulation, Indra accepted that he could not harm the villagers and realised that he had let his ego dictate his actions, thus, conceding defeat,” said Pankaj Khanna.
“When Krishna urged people to thank Mount Govardhan for his offerings, he asked people to create a mountainous offering of food and delicacies for a ‘giri yagna’. It is said that Krishna himself, then assumed the form of a mountain himself and accepted the villagers’ offerings.
Thus, on this special day, people prepare elaborate vegetarian meals of 56 or 108 different kinds of dishes made with wheat, rice, gram flour. Delicious food using leafy vegetables, milk, pulses, and fruits are also cooked and offered to Lord Krishna on this day,” Khanna explained.
Govardhan Pooja: Celebration
Khanna further said, “Devotees perform this pooja by making hillocks of cow-dung which represents the Mount Govardhan, the mountain Krishna had lifted. The small hillock is adorned with flowers and devotees circumambulate the hillock and pray to Lord Govardhan, asking him to protect their families. People also pray to Lord Krishna who taught people to worship the nature.
How to make hillocks
On the day of Govardhan Puja, people make hillocks from cow dung, which represents Mount Govardhan. These hillocks are then beautifully adorned with flowers and worshipped with kumkum and Akshatra. Devotees then perform ‘Parikrama’ (a ritual of taking rounds) around the hillocks.
They pray devotedly to Lord Govardhan and ask Him to protect them from hardships of life. On this day people also give bath to their bulls and cow and decorate them with garlands and saffron. They then worship the cows and bulls as they were considered dear to Lord Krishna.
The preparation of ‘Annakoot’ is an integral part of the Govardhan Puja. The word ‘Annakoot’ means ‘mountain of food’. Therefore on the auspicious day of Govardhan Puja, devotees 108 or even 56 varied preparations of food to offer as ‘Bhog’ to Lord Krishna. The idols of Lord Krishna are bathed in milk and adorned with beautiful and dazzling clothes and jewelry. They are then worshipped by traditional means, including Bhog and aarti. The ‘Annakoot’ Prasad is then distributed amongst family members and friends.
History
Legend has it that Lord Indra became enraged when Shri Krishna commanded the Braj people to worship the Govardhan mountain and cows. He unleashed such torrential rain in his rage that Brajs residents lives were perilous. Then, in order to safeguard the Braj people, Brajwasis, and animals, Shri Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain with his little finger.
They took refuge beneath this mountain for seven days. This is why during Govardhan Puja, people worship this mountain by carving it out of cow dung and circumambulating it seven times.Govardhan Puja 2022: Puja samagriSweets to be offered to the deity, incense sticks, flowers, garlands composed of fresh flowers, roli, rice, and cow dung are all on the list of Govardhan Puja samagri. The Chappan bhog, which consists of 56 different food items, is prepared, and the panchamrit is made using honey, curd, and sugar.
Padwa
The fourth day of Diwali celebrations is also celebrated as Kartik Shuddh Padwa, which is the day when King Bali came out of the Pataal Lok, the nether land and ruler of the Bhoo Lok, the world as per the blessing given to him by Lord Vishnu. Therefore this day is also known as Bali Padyami or Bali Pratipada. Padwa also marks the coronation of King Vikramaditya. At some places it is enjoyed as a new year because the Vikram Samvat was started from this day.
The names and events of the individual days of Diwali are as follows:
The first day, known as Dhanteras, The second day, called Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, commemorates Krishna’s destruction of Narakasura; prayers are also offered for the souls of ancestors. On the third day, Lakshmi Puja, families seek blessings from Lakshmi to ensure their prosperity; light diyas, candles, and fireworks; and visit temples. It is the main day of the Diwali festival. The fourth day, known as Goverdhan Puja, Balipratipada, or Annakut, commemorating Krishna’s defeat of Indra, the king of the gods, is also the first day of Karttika and the start of the new year in the Vikrama (Hindu) calendar. Merchants perform religious ceremonies and open new account books. The fifth day, called Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhai Bij, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On that day sisters pray for the success and well-being of their brothers.
Also read : Diwali the festival of light and science and Significance of 5 days in Diwali
Reason of celebration
Diwali, also spelled Divali, one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, lasting for five days from the 13th day of the dark half of the lunar month Ashvina to the second day of the light half of the lunar month Karttika. (The corresponding dates in the Gregorian calendar usually fall in late October and November.) The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Observances of Diwali differ depending on region and tradition. Among Hindus the most widespread custom is the lighting of diyas (small earthenware lamps filled with oil) on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In Bengal the goddess Kali is worshipped. In North India the festival also celebrates the royal homecoming of Rama (along with Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman) to the city of Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, the 10-headed king of the demons, thus connecting the festival with the holiday of Dussehra. In South India the festival marks Krishna’s defeat of the demon Narakasura. Some celebrate Diwali as a commemoration of the marriage of Lakshmi and Vishnu, while others observe it as the birthday of Lakshmi.
Quotes
On the beautiful & holy occasion of Govardhan Puja, we desire you a very happy and prosperous day fill up with Lord Krishna’s blessings.
A competition filled with candy adolescence recollections,
The skies filled with fireworks,
Mouth packed with goodies,
The house full of ideas and the coronary heart full of joy.
Wishing you a completely glad and wealthy Govardhan Puja!
Govardhan Puja is a holy day filled with faith & prayers. May this day bring into your life all the things that are dear to you.
Warm greetings on the auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja to everyone. May this occasion be full of festivities and bliss for you and your loved ones.
Lights a lamp to lower darkness,
Pray to God to provide us power,
Distribute chocolates to remove bitterness,
Distribute a message of love and happiness all over are you able to examine it properly. Surrounded through own family, friends and loads of love and remember.
Happy Govardhan Puja! I hope that Lord Krishna eliminates all the obstacles in your life!
The festival of purity, progress, and joy visits us again! Happy Govardhan Puja!
The divine presence of Lord Krishna is here to free us from our evil deeds. Happy Govardhan Puja!
May the divine mother give you strength and courage. Happy Govardhan Puja to you all!
A day of festivities and bliss. Govardhan Puja is here again. May lord Krishna bring you love and luck, and destroy all the evils and pain. Happy Govardhan Puja.
Trust his words, trust his deeds
Trust his decisions, trust his visions.
Trust Shri Krishna once,
He entrusts himself forever.
Happy Govardhan Puja!
Govardhan Puja is an auspicious day filled with faith, prayers, and goodwill too.
May this day bring in your life, all the things that are dear to you.
Happy Govardhan Puja!
A day of festivities and bliss,
Govardhan Puja is here again.
May lord Krishna bring you love and luck,
And destroy all the evils and pain.
Happy Govardhan Puja!
May this special day of Govardhan puja
Bring you success, wealth and love.
May lord Krishna bless you and your family,
Right from heaven above.
Happy Govardhan Pooja!
Quotes on Govardhan Puja
“On this auspicious day of Govardhan Puja, let us remember the teachings of Lord Krishna and seek his blessings for a life filled with love, compassion, and prosperity.”
“May the divine blessings of Lord Krishna protect us from all obstacles and shower us with happiness and abundance. Happy Govardhan Puja!”
“As we celebrate Govardhan Puja, let us remember the significance of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill and find inspiration in his act of protection and love.”
“On this sacred day of Govardhan Puja, let us offer our prayers to Lord Krishna and seek his guidance to overcome challenges and lead a righteous life.”
“Govardhan Puja reminds us of the power of devotion and the protection offered by Lord Krishna. May his blessings shield us from all negativities and bless us with peace and prosperity.”
“May the blessings of Lord Krishna bring joy, harmony, and prosperity to our lives. Wishing you a blessed and blissful Govardhan Puja!”
“On the occasion of Govardhan Puja, let us express our gratitude for the abundance of nature and the blessings we receive. May we always strive to protect and preserve our environment.”
“As we celebrate Govardhan Puja, let us embrace the spirit of gratitude and nurture a deep connection with nature. May we learn to protect and cherish our planet.”
“Govardhan Puja is a reminder to cultivate a sense of responsibility towards the environment and the world around us. Let us strive to be mindful stewards of Mother Earth.”
“On this special day of Govardhan Puja, let us take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature and renew our commitment to environmental conservation. Happy Govardhan Puja!”
Quotes
“As we celebrate Govardhan Puja, let us remember the power of faith and the significance of standing up for what is right. May Lord Krishna’s blessings be with us always.”
“Govardhan Puja is a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness and compassion can make a significant difference. Let us strive to bring positivity and love into the lives of others.”
“On this auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja, let us embrace the values of unity and community. May we come together to support and uplift one another.”
“Govardhan Puja is a celebration of the bond between humans, animals, and nature. Let us honor and respect all forms of life, nurturing a harmonious coexistence.”
“May the divine blessings of Lord Krishna fill our hearts with love, peace, and happiness on the occasion of Govardhan Puja. Wishing you a blessed and joyous celebration.”
“On this sacred day of Govardhan Puja, let us remember the significance of Lord Krishna’s teachings on compassion, love, and protection. May we imbibe these values in our lives.”
“Govardhan Puja teaches us the importance of letting go of our ego and embracing humility. May we learn to serve others selflessly and find true joy in giving.”
“As we celebrate Govardhan Puja, let us cultivate a sense of gratitude for the abundance in our lives. May we be grateful for the blessings and share them with those in need.”
“On this auspicious occasion, let us seek the blessings of Lord Krishna to guide us on the path of righteousness and lead a life filled with love, compassion, and spiritual growth.”
“May the celebrations of Govardhan Puja bring peace, prosperity, and divine blessings into our lives. Wishing you a joyful and meaningful observance of this sacred day.”
Quotes
“On the auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja, may the divine blessings of Lord Krishna fill your life with joy, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.”
“Govardhan Puja is a reminder that true strength lies in standing up for what is right and protecting those who are vulnerable. Let us strive to be a source of support and love for others.”
“May the celebrations of Govardhan Puja bring harmony, peace, and unity to our lives. Let us come together as a community and spread love and positivity.”
“As we worship Lord Krishna on Govardhan Puja, may we be inspired by his teachings of love, compassion, and righteousness. Let us follow his footsteps and make this world a better place.”
“On this auspicious day, let us offer our gratitude to Mother Nature for her abundant blessings. May we pledge to take care of our environment and work towards its preservation.”
“Govardhan Puja is a time to reflect upon our actions and their impact on the world around us. Let us strive to live in harmony with nature and contribute to a greener and cleaner planet.”
“May the divine energy of Govardhan Puja illuminate your path and guide you towards success, happiness, and inner peace. Wishing you a blessed and joyous celebration.”
“As we celebrate Govardhan Puja, let us remember that every act of kindness and compassion creates ripples of positive change in the world. Let us be the change we wish to see.”
“On this auspicious occasion, let us seek the blessings of Lord Krishna to bless us with wisdom, strength, and the ability to make righteous choices in our lives.”
“May the divine grace of Lord Krishna shower upon you and your loved ones on Govardhan Puja. Wishing you a blissful and spiritually uplifting celebration.”
Quotes
“Govardhan Puja reminds us of the power of faith, devotion, and the importance of protecting and nurturing all forms of life.”
“The essence of Govardhan Puja lies in embracing humility, gratitude, and the spirit of selfless service towards others.”
“Govardhan Puja teaches us that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in the richness of love, compassion, and spiritual growth.”
“The essence of Govardhan Puja is to cultivate a deep connection with nature and to recognize our responsibility to protect and preserve our environment.”
“On the occasion of Govardhan Puja, let us remember that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of positive change in the world.”
“Govardhan Puja signifies the triumph of righteousness over ego, reminding us to let go of our attachments and embrace a life of selflessness and service.”
“The essence of Govardhan Puja lies in fostering unity, harmony, and love among individuals and communities, transcending boundaries and differences.”
“Govardhan Puja teaches us to appreciate the abundance of nature, express gratitude, and share our blessings with those in need.”
“On this auspicious day, let us immerse ourselves in the divine essence of Govardhan Puja and seek spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.”
“The essence of Govardhan Puja is to awaken our consciousness to the divine presence within ourselves and all living beings, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and reverence for life.”
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