Govardhan Puja 2025: Date, History, Significance & Rituals

Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut Puja, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated just a day after Diwali, the festival of lights. The day commemorates the divine episode of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains.

In 2025, Govardhan Puja will be observed on Monday, October 27.

This auspicious day is especially popular in North India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, and holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for devotees of Lord Krishna.

 When is Govardhan Puja in 2025?

• Govardhan Puja Date: Monday, October 27, 2025

• Observed on: Pratipada Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik

• Day after: Diwali (Sunday, October 26, 2025)

 The Legend Behind Govardhan Puja

The story of Govardhan Puja originates from the Bhagavata Purana. According to the legend, the people of Vrindavan used to worship Lord Indra, the god of rain, to ensure timely rainfall for agriculture. However, young Krishna persuaded them to worship Govardhan Hill, which provided them with natural resources like grass, wood, and fertile soil.

Angered by this, Indra unleashed a terrible storm upon the village. To protect the people and their cattle, Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger, using it as an umbrella to shield everyone from the downpour. The storm continued for seven days, but Krishna’s divine power prevailed. Finally, Indra realized his mistake and bowed to Krishna’s greatness.

 Significance of Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja symbolizes:

• Faith in divine protection

• Victory of humility over arrogance

• Respect for nature and the environment

• Celebration of Krishna’s love and care for his devotees

It also highlights the importance of sustainable living, gratitude to nature, and community harmony.

How is Govardhan Puja Celebrated?

The rituals and celebrations of Govardhan Puja vary from region to region but revolve around worshipping Govardhan Hill (symbolically) and offering a variety of foods.

1. Govardhan Hill Made of Cow Dung

A small hill-shaped structure made of cow dung is created and decorated with flowers, earthen lamps (diyas), and miniature clay figures of cows, Krishna, and villagers. This represents Govardhan Parvat, and people circumambulate it in reverence.

2. Annakut – The Grand Food Offering

The word Annakut literally means “mountain of food”. Devotees prepare and offer 56 different food items (Chappan Bhog) to Lord Krishna as a gesture of gratitude. This offering is later shared as prasadam.

3. Worship of Cows (Gau Puja)

In many regions, especially in rural India, cows are bathed, decorated with turmeric, vermillion, and garlands. They are worshipped and fed, honoring their significance in agriculture and Hindu culture.

4. Temple Celebrations

In temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, special pujas, bhajans (devotional songs), and Krishna leelas (plays depicting Krishna’s life) are organized. The atmosphere is filled with spiritual fervor and community celebrations.

 Celebrations at Govardhan Hill, Mathura

The most grand and authentic celebrations occur at Govardhan Hill near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. Thousands of devotees perform the Govardhan Parikrama (a 21 km walk around the hill), offering flowers, sweets, and prayers. The entire area is adorned with lights and cultural performances, creating a divine atmosphere.

 Rituals to Follow on Govardhan Puja

• Wake up early and take a holy bath

• Clean and decorate the house and puja area

• Create Govardhan Parvat using cow dung and decorate it

• Offer Annakut (variety of vegetarian dishes) to Krishna

• Perform aarti and recite Govardhan Leela

• Feed the poor or distribute food (Annadaan)

 Spiritual Message of Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja teaches us:

• To respect nature and live in harmony with it

• To let go of ego and pride

• That faith and devotion can overcome any crisis

• That God always protects his devotees

•  Conclusion

Govardhan Puja 2025, falling on October 27, is a divine celebration that goes beyond rituals. It connects us to nature, to faith, and to the values of humility and service. Whether you’re celebrating at home or visiting a Krishna temple, let this day be a reminder of the love and protection that the divine offers.