The days following Diwali mark the celebration of Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut — a day of gratitude, devotion, and connection with nature. Yet, in 2025, a familiar confusion has returned: When is Govardhan Puja actually celebrated?
The Date Debate — Why It Varies Each Year
In 2025, the Govardhan Puja date has sparked debate among devotees because the lunar calendar tithi overlaps with Amavasya (Diwali) and Pratipada. Some temples and communities may observe it on October 23, while others may celebrate it on October 24, depending on sunrise and moon timings.
This variation arises because Govardhan Puja is performed on the first lunar day (Pratipada) of the Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month, immediately after Diwali. Regional traditions and astrologers interpret the timing differently, leading to multiple observance dates across India.
The Story Behind Govardhan Puja
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Gokul from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. The act symbolized the power of faith over arrogance and emphasized humanity’s bond with nature.
Devotees honor this legend by building small Govardhan mountains from cow dung, mud, and flowers, representing the sacred hill, and offer food known as Annakut — a mountain of vegetarian dishes symbolizing gratitude to nature for abundance.
Key Rituals and Celebrations
Annakut Offering: Devotees prepare a grand variety of vegetarian food and sweets as offerings to Lord Krishna.
Govardhan Parikrama: In some regions, devotees walk around symbolic mounds or sacred hills, chanting devotional songs.
Cattle Worship: In rural India, cows and bulls — seen as symbols of prosperity — are decorated and worshipped.
Community Feasts: Temples organize mass feasts and distribute prasad to devotees, emphasizing collective gratitude.
Modern Interpretation — Beyond Rituals
In modern India, Govardhan Puja is being reinterpreted as a festival of ecological awareness. The story of Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill serves as a reminder to protect nature and respect the environment.
Urban celebrations now include tree-planting drives, organic food offerings, and eco-friendly Annakut feasts, reflecting a conscious blend of faith and sustainability.
FAQs:
Q1. When is Govardhan Puja celebrated in 2025?
A1. Depending on regional and lunar interpretations, Govardhan Puja 2025 will be observed either on October 23 or October 24.
Q2. Why does the date of Govardhan Puja vary every year?
A2. It depends on the lunar calendar — specifically, the transition from Amavasya to Pratipada after Diwali. The timing of sunrise and moonset affects the date.
Q3. What is the significance of Annakut during Govardhan Puja?
A3. Annakut represents gratitude to nature and Lord Krishna for sustenance, where devotees offer large varieties of vegetarian food as a symbol of abundance.
Q4. How is Govardhan Puja relevant in modern times?
A4. The festival inspires eco-conscious living and gratitude toward natural resources — encouraging balance between tradition and sustainability.
Published on : 21st October
Published by : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vizzve_micro_seva&pcampaignid=web_share