Govardhan Puja - Govardhan on Krishna Finger

Puzzle cube mosaic of Govardhan on Krishna Finger

Govardhan Puja is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the first day after Diwali, typically falling in October or November. It commemorates the lifting of Mount Govardhan by Lord Krishna to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the rain god. According to Hindu mythology, when Indra flooded the region to punish the villagers for not offering him proper worship, Lord Krishna lifted the entire mountain on his little finger, providing shelter and safety for the people.

The preparation of small hillocks of cow dung, symbolizing the Govardhan Mountain, which devotees decorate with flowers and offer prayers. This is a reflection of Krishna’s act of protection. In many regions, devotees also prepare and offer a special food feast known as ‘Annakut’, which consists of a variety of dishes as a mark of gratitude for the blessings of the season. The festival is a reminder of the importance of nature and the divine protection provided by Lord Krishna.