Introduction to Govardhan Puja
On October 22nd, 2025, devotees across North India will celebrate Govardhan Puja, a festival that holds deep spiritual significance. Revered as an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi, cows receive special worship on this day. Additionally, prayers are dedicated to Lord Krishna and Mount Govardhan, honoring divine protection and gratitude.
The Festival Also Known as Annakut
Govardhan Puja is widely recognized as Annakut, meaning “mountain of food.” It is celebrated with immense enthusiasm, particularly in the Braj region—Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandgaon, Gokul, and Barsana—where Lord Krishna’s pastimes are immortalized.
Mythological Background and Cultural Importance
The Legend Behind Govardhan Puja
According to ancient Puranic texts, Lord Krishna protected the inhabitants of Braj from the fury of Lord Indra by lifting the Govardhan mountain on his little finger. This miraculous act humbled Lord Indra and ended his stormy wrath. In remembrance, devotees prepare an elaborate offering of Annakut, featuring wheat, rice, gram flour, and a variety of leafy vegetables, symbolizing gratitude for nature’s bounty.
Govardhan Puja 2025: Auspicious Timings
Duration of Pratipada
Govardhan Puja begins on the evening of October 21st at 5:54 pm and continues until October 22nd, ending at 8:16 pm.
Key Auspicious Time Slots for Worship
- Morning: 6:26 am to 8:42 am
- Afternoon: 3:29 pm to 5:44 pm
- Evening: 5:44 pm to 6:10 pm
Devotees are encouraged to perform the puja during these times to maximize spiritual benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Govardhan Puja Worship
Morning Preparations
Begin the day early with a light body massage followed by a cleansing bath to purify the mind and body.
Creating the Govardhan Mountain
Using cow dung, fashion a small hillock symbolizing Mount Govardhan at the main entrance or courtyard. Decorate it with plants, miniature cowherd figurines, and bulls to recreate the pastoral scene of Krishna’s childhood.
Puja Rituals
Place a small idol of Lord Krishna at the center of the mountain. Offer Annakut, the assortment of food items, with devotion. After the ritual, listen to the sacred Govardhan Puja story, distribute prasad (blessed food), and share a communal meal.
The Spiritual Story: Govardhan Puja Katha
The essence of Govardhan Puja lies in Lord Krishna’s act of humility and protection. To humble the prideful Lord Indra and safeguard Gokul’s residents, Krishna lifted the mountain, providing shelter from torrential rains. Following this divine intervention, Krishna commanded his devotees to worship Mount Govardhan annually with a grand offering of 56 dishes. This timeless tradition continues today as a symbol of devotion, humility, and harmony with nature.
