Govardhan Puja (Govardhan Hill Worship)

Govardhan Puja is a Hindu ritual practice commemorating Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill.

Overview

Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut (mountain of food) festival, is celebrated on the day after Diwali (the first day of the bright fortnight in the month of Kartik). It commemorates the episode from the Bhagavata Purana where Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger to shelter the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra.

Method/Content

The ritual involves preparing a large variety of food items (Annakut) arranged in a mountain-like formation before the deity. In Vaishnavite temples, the food offering includes hundreds of different dishes. Devotees circumambulate a representation of Govardhan Hill made from cow dung or food items. The worship includes prayers to Krishna, recitation of the Govardhan Lila story, distribution of prasad, and circumambulation of the actual Govardhan Hill for those who make the pilgrimage to Barsana.

Purpose/Benefits

Govardhan Puja commemorates Krishna’s protection of his devotees and teaches the importance of faith over ritualistic practices. It is believed to bring blessings for agricultural prosperity, cattle welfare, and family protection. The festival emphasizes the importance of community, generosity, and devotion to the divine.

Verification Notes

• Celebrated on the first day after Diwali (October-November)
• Particularly important in the Braj region of Uttar Pradesh
• The Govardhan Hill pilgrimage (parikrama) is a major religious event