Govardhan Puja, celebrated the day after Diwali, is a significant Hindu festival associated with Lord Krishna, Govardhan Hill, and Indra. This year, it will be observed on Saturday, November 2, 2024. The festival commemorates Lord Krishna's victory over Indra and is believed to bring prosperity to homes through the worship of Govardhan Hill and cows. It is also a time for offering 56 types of dishes as a symbol of abundance and invoking the blessings of Goddess Annapurna. The article also emphasises the merits of cow worship and donations, as stated in the Skanda Purana. For individual experiences may vary, it is advisable to consult a qualified expert before implementing any information or belief discussed.
Govardhan Puja: A Triumph of Devotion over Hubris
Background
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakoot, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated the day after Diwali. It commemorates the legendary victory of Lord Krishna over Indra, the king of the gods.
According to the legend, Indra was angered by the villagers of Vrindavan who stopped worshiping him and instead celebrated Govardhan Hill. In retaliation, Indra sent a torrential downpour upon Vrindavan.
Lord Krishna, seeing the plight of his devotees, lifted Govardhan Hill with his little finger and held it as an umbrella over the villagers, protecting them from the rain. Indra realized his folly and submitted to Krishna's divinity.
Significance
Govardhan Puja symbolizes the triumph of devotion over hubris and the importance of seeking divine protection. It is believed that worshiping Govardhan Hill and cows on this day brings prosperity and blessings to homes.
Rituals and Celebrations
On Govardhan Puja, devotees construct a small replica of Govardhan Hill using cow dung and offer 56 types of dishes as a symbol of abundance. This offering is known as "annakoot" and is believed to represent the bounty of Mother Earth.
Worshipers also perform "gau pooja" (cow worship) as cows are considered sacred in Hinduism. They donate food, clothing, and money to the needy to invoke the blessings of Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of nourishment.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When is Govardhan Puja celebrated in 2024? Answer: Saturday, November 2, 2024
2. What is the significance of Govardhan Hill? Answer: Govardhan Hill is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Krishna himself and has been venerated by devotees for centuries.
3. Why do we worship cows on Govardhan Puja? Answer: Cows are considered sacred animals in Hinduism and are believed to represent purity, nourishment, and prosperity.
4. What are the benefits of performing "annakoot"? Answer: Offering 56 different dishes is believed to bring abundance and blessings to homes and families.
5. What are some other traditions associated with Govardhan Puja? Answer: In some regions, devotees engage in "parikrama" (circumambulating) around Govardhan Hill or performing "kirtans" (devotional songs) in honor of Lord Krishna.
The state of Karnataka was filled with festivities as they marked the 69th Kannada Rajyotsava, commemorating the formation of the state. Top leaders such Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended their greetings and recognized the state's contributions to the country. The day was celebrated with a grand function attended by Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar and Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, showcasing the rich local culture and heritage of Karnataka. The leaders also highlighted the state's exemplary people who are driving growth and innovation in various sectors.
Discover the sacred Hindu festival of Govardhan Puja and the story behind its significance. Celebrated immediately after Diwali, the festival highlights the importance of humility and gratitude towards nature's resources. The festivity involves creating a representation of the Govardhan Hill, seeking blessings from cows and expressing gratitude for life's abundance. Join in on this humble celebration and learn the meaning behind it.
Every year on November 1, Karnataka commemorates its Formation Day, marking the unification of all Kannada-speaking areas. This significant day celebrates the state's rich heritage, identity, and unity, inspiring generations to come. Let's come together to honor the traditions and incredible people of Karnataka and embrace the diversity and strength of our state.
As Diwali celebrations come to a close, Delhi residents wake up to poor air quality with an AQI of 361 in the "very poor" category. Despite a ban on firecrackers, reports reveal widespread violations in both east and west Delhi. The city saw a significant increase in air and noise pollution compared to last year, largely attributed to unfavorable weather conditions, stubble burning, and vehicular emissions. The Delhi Fire Services received 78 calls regarding fire incidents on Diwali evening, with two people injured in a bus fire caused by firecrackers.
The southern state of Karnataka will be celebrating its foundation day, also known as Karnataka Rajyotsava, on November 1, 2024. This day marks the formation of the state in 1956, after decades of struggle for a separate state to preserve the linguistic and cultural identity of the Kannada people. The Karnataka Rajyotsava is a time to remember and honor those who fought for the unity and progress of the state.
Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot greets people of the state on the eve of Kannada Rajyotsava and emphasizes the importance of cherishing the state's cultural heritage. On this day of Karnataka's unification, he urges citizens to promote unity and social harmony for the state's progress. ThePrint holds no responsibility for the auto-generated PTI news report.
As Diwali approaches in 2024, Hindus prepare to celebrate the festival of lights by performing rituals and pujas to invite the blessings of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi into their homes. One such ritual involves placing cowries, considered symbols of wealth and prosperity, during the Lakshmi Puja. This practice is believed to attract financial stability and happiness, bringing continued prosperity to the home. However, it is important to consult a qualified expert before implementing any beliefs or practices associated with Diwali.
With Diwali right around the corner, many people are looking for ways to attract wealth and prosperity into their homes. As per Vastu Shastra and the advice of astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram, lighting diyas in a specific direction and worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are believed to bring financial abundance. Other rituals such as lighting ghee lamps and worshipping the root of the Ashoka tree are also recommended for success and prosperity on this auspicious day. Follow these expert tips to experience a truly prosperous Diwali.
In a regular feature, News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero helps Orlando-area drivers become better informed about the rules of the road. In this edition, Montiero answers viewer questions about the legality of making U-turns from multiple left-turn lanes and the protocol for yielding to drivers making U-turns. As residents of Florida may have noticed, many vehicles in the area have trailer hitches installed on the back, even when not towing anything. Through this segment, Montiero aims to educate and improve the driving skills of his audience.