Govardhan Puja is celebrated right after Diwali. It signifies the victory of Lord Krishna over Lord Indra. There are many stories connected with Govardhan Puja. It is mainly celebrated in the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Maharashtra. Different states celebrate this festival with different names and different reasons according to the significance to them. This festival is majorly focused on the prayers and pujas of God.
Govardhan Puja – Date, History, Importance & Celebration
There are many legends related to Govardhan Puja. The most known out of all is of small hillock which is located near Mathura at a place known as Braj. As per the Vishnu Puraan, people of Gokul used to worship Lord Indra because they believed that he was the one who provided them rain. And rain was important for life, food and livelihood. Lord Krishna told the people of Gokul that it wasn’t Lord Indra who bought rains but it was Govardhan Parvat. And everyone should worship and pray to Govardhan Parvat. When people of Gokul followed Lord Krishna’s sayings, Lord Indra felt insulted and angry. This resulted in wrath of Lord Indra. He showered heavy rains on the people of Gokul. Lord Krishna saved the people of Gokul by lifting the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger and giving them shelter from the heavy rains. .
Govardhan Puja Date 2019: October 28
Govardhan Puja Date 2020: November 14
Govardhan Puja Date 2021: November 5
This festival is also celebrated as “Padwa” in the state of Maharashtra signifying the victory of Vamana who is considered to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu over King Bali. This day also marks the day when King Vikramaditya was incarnated and called as Vikram Samvat.
This day also signifies the beginning pf Gujarati New Year. However, the days might get a day before or after.
Govardhan Puja is also known as ‘Annakoot’. People prepare around 56 or 108 dishes and offer them to Lord Krishna. The offering of food is known as ‘bhog’. It is also known as Gudi Padwa in many regions. It is a festival to celebrate the love of husband and wife.
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The celebration of Govardhan Puja is not limited to India only. It is celebrated in some parts of New Zealand also. This day is celebrated with huge enthusiasm all the across the globe by Hindus. This day is celebrated to honor the farmers, the Govardhan Parvat, Lord Krishna and Lord Indra.