Govardhan Puja 2023: Celebrating the Divine Bond with Lord Krishna
In India, where every festival is celebrated with unwavering zeal and devotion, Govardhan Puja holds a special place. The main event of the Diwali celebration is this festival, also called Annakoot Puja. On this auspicious day, devotees honor the holy Govardhan Mountain and Lord Krishna, commemorating the latter’s victory over the former. Let’s examine more about the mythology, importance, Govardhan Puja as we get ready to celebrate it in 2023.
Govardhan Puja 2023 Date and Tithi
Mark Your Calendar
Govardhan Puja typically follows Diwali, taking place on the fourth day of the five-day Diwali festival. In 2023, this special day falls on Tuesday, November 14th. It is essential to understand the auspicious timings associated with this day:
Puja Timings
- Govardhan Puja Pratahkala Muhurat: 06:43 AM to 08:52 AM
- Pratipada Tithi Begins: 14:56 on November 13, 2023
- Pratipada Tithi Ends: 14:36 on November 14, 2023
Govardhan Puja Significance
Embracing Divine Significance
For Hindus, Govardhan Puja carries immense spiritual significance. This day is dedicated to worshipping Lord Shri Krishna, the Govardhan Parvat (Mountain), and the sacred cow. It represents respect and admiration for Mother Nature in addition to awe for Lord Krishna.Devotees believe that by worshipping Govardhan Hill and Lord Krishna’s beloved cows on this day, they receive divine blessings and protection.
The Legend of Govardhan Puja
According to the Vishnu Puran, Lord Krishna once questioned why people worshiped God Indra. The answer, as provided by mother Yashodaji, was to seek rain for agriculture and prosperity. Dissatisfied with this explanation, young Krishna suggested that instead of appeasing Lord Indra, they should worship the Govardhan Parvat. This would bring them abundant rainfall as cows graze on the hillsides, and trees contribute to good rains. Lord Krishna’s advice led to the villagers redirecting their offerings and practices.
However, Lord Indra, known for his temper, became furious upon realizing that the villagers had ceased their worship. Witnessing their suffering, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Mountain with a single finger to shield the villagers and their animals from the torrential rains. He held the mountain aloft for seven consecutive days, during which the villagers sought refuge beneath it. Eventually, Lord Indra recognized Krishna’s divinity and sought forgiveness.
This story demonstrates the compassion and power of Lord Krishna, showing that he is the ultimate source of strength for everyone. Govardhan Puja serves as an expression of gratitude to Lord Krishna for his protection.
Annakut Puja & Chappan Bhog
The Pilgrimage to Govardhan
On the occasion of Annakut Puja, numerous pilgrims make their way to Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, to worship the Govardhan Mountain. For those who cannot trek the mountain, especially the elderly, Chhappan Bhog prasad is prepared for Lord Krishna. There are 56 distinct food items in Chhappan Bhog, both savory and sweet. Giving this prasad is thought to confer heavenly blessings and is a symbol of reverence for Mother Nature. Following the worship of Lord Krishna, devotees gather to distribute Chhappan Bhog prasad and sing Govardhan Puja bhajans.
Govardhan Puja Vidhi
Step-by-Step Rituals
- Devotees follow a series of rituals during Govardhan Puja:
- Early Preparation: Devotees rise early and prepare themselves for the day.
- Temple Illumination: They light diyas and incense sticks in their home temples.
- Idol Creation: Many engage in Govardhan Puja drawing to create an idol.
- Cow Dung Art: Devotees craft an idol of Govardhan using cow dung and adorn it with flowers.
- Chhappan Bhog Offering: As part of the ritual, Chhappan Bhog is prepared and offered as prasad to the Govardhan idol.
- Revolving Around the Idol: Devotees sing devotional songs and mantras while circumambulating the idol of Govardhan.
- Aarti and Prasad: The puja concludes with Govardhan Puja aarti, followed by the distribution of prasad to fellow devotees.
Govardhan Puja Mantra
Invoking Divine Blessings
To complete the puja, recite the following Govardhan mantra in front of the Govardhan idol:
“|| श्रीगिर्रिराजधरणप्रभुतेरीशरण ||”
As we approach Govardhan Puja 2023, allow us to don’t forget the profound significance of this pageant.It’s a day to pay tribute to Lord Krishna, provide way to Mother Nature, and keep in mind the tale that best captures the courage and kindness of Krishna. By attractive inside the rituals, we improve our connection to the divine and the herbal world similarly to requesting heavenly benefits.
Govardhan Puja serves as a reminder of Lord Krishna’s grace and our connection to the universe which was created by him , serving as more than just a excursion. I pray that this Govardhan Puja brings you happiness, wealth, and a more in-depth religious bond
