**Govardhan Puja**, also known as **Annakut**, is a Hindu festival celebrated the day after Diwali. It marks the day Lord Krishna lifted **Govardhan Hill** to protect the residents of **Vrindavan** from torrential rains sent by the god Indra. This act is seen as a symbol of divine protection and a reminder to worship nature.
### History and Origins
The origin of Govardhan Puja is rooted in the **Bhagavata Purana** and other sacred texts, which tell the story of young Krishna challenging the traditional worship of Lord Indra by encouraging the people of Vrindavan to honor Govardhan Hill instead. Angered, Indra sent heavy rains to the village. Krishna lifted the hill on his little finger, providing shelter until the storm ended, ultimately humbling Indra.
### Significance and Symbolism
Govardhan Puja highlights the importance of:
- **Nature worship**: Honoring natural resources and the environment.
- **Self-sufficiency**: As a reminder that true blessings come from nature and community rather than external powers.
- **Humility and Devotion**: Krishna’s act teaches humility and the power of sincere devotion.
### Observance and Rituals
The festival is celebrated with offerings of **food (Annakut)** to Krishna, which are later distributed as **prasad**. People create a replica of Govardhan Hill from cow dung or clay and decorate it with flowers, representing the original hill. Special prayers, songs, and dance are performed, particularly in temples in **Mathura** and **Vrindavan**.
### Key Facts
- **When Celebrated**: It occurs on the first day of the **Hindu lunar month Kartik**.
- **Customs**: Making **Annakut (a mountain of food)**, cow worship, and special bhajans (devotional songs).
- **Themes**: Protection, community support, and ecological reverence.
### Frequently Asked Questions
1. **What is Annakut?**
- Annakut translates to "mountain of food," and it is a ceremonial offering of various dishes to Lord Krishna.
2. **Is Govardhan Puja only celebrated in India?**
- While most prominent in northern India, it is observed in various forms by Hindu communities worldwide.
### Wishes
- “On this Govardhan Puja, may Lord Krishna bless you with health, wealth, and prosperity.”
- “Wishing you joy and spiritual fulfillment as we honor Govardhan Hill and celebrate the values of humility and protection.”
Govardhan Puja remains an enduring reminder of the importance of nature, humility, and devotion in Hindu spirituality.
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