Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakoot Puja, holds special significance in Hinduism. This festival is celebrated on the next day of Deepawali and is associated with the story of Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan. Devotees worship Lord Govardhan, Lord Krishna, and nature on this day. The major purpose of Govardhan Puja is to express gratitude towards nature and the environment, which provide the necessary resources for our lives.
Legend of Govardhan Puja
The story of Govardhan Puja is related to the childhood of Lord Krishna. It is said that when Lord Krishna was residing in Vrajbhoomi, the people there used to worship Lord Indra every year. Its purpose was to please Lord Indra so that the rains keep on falling and the crops get enough water.
Once Lord Krishna saw that the people of the village are showing excessive dedication in worshipping Indra and are spending more time and resources than they need. Shri Krishna thought that it was the neglect of natural resources and the Govardhan Parvat, which actually eased the lives of the villagers.
Shri Krishna explained to the villagers that instead of worshiping Indra, they should worship Govardhan Parvat and nature, because Govardhan Parvat provides them with water, green grass, and other natural resources. On this, the villagers obeyed Krishna’s suggestion and started worshiping Govardhan Mountain instead of worshiping Indra. Seeing this, Indra Devta became very angry, and he sent torrential rain to punish the villagers.
Vrajbhoomi started receiving heavy rains and the village was in a state of drowning. Then Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain on his little finger and gave shelter to all the villagers under it. It rained continuously for seven days, but Lord Krishna kept everyone safe with his divine power. Finally, Indra understood his mistake and apologized to Shri Krishna. Since then, the tradition of Govardhan Puja started, in which people worship Govardhan Mountain and nature.
Significance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja has great importance from both religious and social point of view. This festival teaches us that the protection and conservation of nature and environment is essential for our life. Lord Krishna gave the message through Govardhan Puja that we should respect our natural resources and worship nature rationally by avoiding superstitions.
Govardhan Puja explains the importance of agriculture, animal husbandry, and vegetation. In Indian society, this festival is deeply associated with farmer and village life. Cows, bulls, and other animals are also worshipped on this day, as these animals play an important role in agricultural operations. Another significant aspect of Govardhan Puja is that it symbolizes collectivity and brotherhood. On this day, people collectively worship the Govardhan Parvat or the Govardhan statue made of cow dung as its symbol and organize a group feast.
Govardhan Puja Vidhi
The following procedure is followed to complete the method of Govardhan Puja:
Making the statue of Govardhan: On this day, the statue of Govardhan Parvat is made from cow dung. It is installed in the courtyard of the house or any public place. Lord Krishna, cows, and other animals and birds are also made from cow dung. This statue symbolically depicts the Govardhan Mountain.
Puja Material: A variety of materials are required for the puja, such as lamps, incense, rice, flowers, water, naivedya (bhog), and especially Annakut. Annakut means food made from a variety of grains and vegetables, which is offered to God.
Govardhan Puja begins: Govardhan Puja begins with a bath in the morning. First Lord Ganesha is worshiped, then the idol of Govardhan is worshiped. Lamps are lit in the puja, incense and rice are offered, and aarti of Govardhan Parvat is performed.
Celebration of Annakoot: Annakoot has special significance in Govardhan Puja. Annakut means food kept in the form of a mountain. A variety of dishes are prepared on this day, and they are offered to God. These delicacies are then distributed among all the devotees. Annakut feast is a symbol of collectivity and dedication.
Worship of Cows and Bulls: Cows and bulls are especially worshiped on this day. The cows are decorated, colored threads are tied on their horns, and they are fed sweets. Bulls are also decorated, and their owners pay special respect to them.
Govardhan Parikrama: There is also a custom of circumambulating the Govardhan Mountain on the day of Govardhan Puja. People form groups and travel on foot to Govardhan Parvat and sing bhajans and kirtans during this time. It is believed that circumambulating Govardhan brings happiness, peace and prosperity in life. If people are not able to circumambulate the mountain, they can circumambulate the statue of Govardhan at home.
Importance of Annakut
Annakoot is another important part of Govardhan Puja. Annakut means making a mountain-like heap of different types of food and vegetables and offering it to God. It is offered to the Lord in the form of prasad and later distributed among all the devotees. Annakut is a symbol of prosperity, devotion, and a balanced diet. It reflects the collectivity and solidarity of rural society. People from all sections of the society attend this feast, which gives the message of harmony and equality in the society.
Significance of Govardhan Puja in Modern Times
Even in today’s era, the importance of Govardhan Puja remains. With changing times, it has become extremely important to understand our responsibilities towards the environment and natural resources. Govardhan Puja teaches us that we should be ready to protect the environment and make good use of our resources. Apart from this, this festival also plays an important role in promoting social unity and brotherhood.
In modern times where science and technological advancement has increased agriculture and exploitation of natural resources, Govardhan Puja reminds us that we must protect our earth and its resources. Through this festival, we express our gratitude to nature and pledge that we will strive to keep the environment safe and balanced.
conclusion
Govardhan Puja is an important festival of Hinduism, which gives us the message of nature, environment, and collectiveness. Lord Krishna, through Govardhan Puja, taught us that we should respect our natural resources and be ready to protect nature. Through this festival, we get the message of collectivity, brotherhood, and equality towards all sections of society.