Introduction: Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakoot, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the first day of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Kartika month. This year, Puja will be celebrated on November 14, 2023.

Mythological Background:

The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the rain god Indra. According to Hindu mythology, Indra became angry when the people of Vrindavan started worshiping Govardhan Hill instead of him. He caused heavy rains to inundate the village, but Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger and sheltered the people of Vrindavan under it. Indra realized his mistake and apologized to Lord Krishna.

Rituals and celebrations:

On Puja, devotees worship Govardhan Hill and Lord Krishna. They make heaps of cow dung cakes to represent Govardhan Hill and offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other delicacies to the deity. In some places, devotees also perform a circumambulation of Govardhan Hill.

Highlights of Govardhan Puja 2023

Devotees in Vrindavan, Mathura, and other parts of North India thronged temples to worship Govardhan Hill and Lord Krishna. Special arrangements were made at temples to accommodate the large number of devotees. Elaborate pujas and aartis were performed at temples. Devotees also offered a variety of food items to Lord Krishna, including sweets, fruits, and vegetables. Many people also performed a circumambulation of Govardhan Hill.

Govardhan Puja: A Message of Environmental Protection

Puja is not just a religious festival but also a message of environmental protection. Govardhan Hill is a symbol of nature, and by worshiping it, we are reminded of the importance of protecting our natural resources. We can all celebrate Puja by doing our part to protect the environment. We can plant trees, reduce our waste, and conserve water and energy. We can also raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection among our friends and family.

Conclusion

Govardhan Puja is a beautiful festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil and the importance of protecting nature. It is a time for us to come together and pray for the well-being of all living beings.

FAQs

1. What is the significance of Govardhan Puja? Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the rain god Indra, emphasizing the importance of protecting nature.
2. How do devotees celebrate Govardhan Puja? Devotees worship Govardhan Hill and Lord Krishna, make cow dung cakes, offer various delicacies, and, in some places, perform a circumambulation of Govardhan Hill.
3. Why is Govardhan Puja considered a message of environmental protection? Govardhan Hill symbolizes nature, reminding us to protect natural resources. Celebrating the festival involves actions that promote environmental consciousness.
4. What are the highlights of Govardhan Puja 2023? Devotees thronged temples, special arrangements were made, elaborate pujas and aartis were performed, and offerings were made to Lord Krishna, including circumambulation activities.
5. How can individuals contribute to environmental protection during Govardhan Puja? Individuals can plant trees, reduce waste, conserve water and energy, and raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection.