Govardhan Puja 2024: Why is Govardhan Puja incomplete without Annakoot, know how the tradition started?

Govardhan Puja importance: Govardhan Puja has special significance in Hindu religion, and the use of cow dung is considered an essential part of this puja. On the day of Govardhan Puja, a mountain made of cow dung is worshiped remembering the story of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Mountain. Through this puja, gratitude is expressed towards nature and the importance of agriculture is also shown.

According to Hindu beliefs, cow dung is considered sacred and is used in house cleaning, worship of deities and religious rituals. In Govardhan Puja, it is considered mandatory to make the shape of Govardhan Mountain from cow dung. Cow dung is not only a symbol of purity, but it is also considered a symbol of removal of household problems and happiness and prosperity.

Why is Govardhan Puja celebrated?

Govardhan Puja is celebrated in memory of Lord Krishna's act of lifting the Govardhan mountain. According to the legend, when Lord Indra got angry with the people of Gokul and started torrential rain, Lord Krishna protected the villagers and animals by lifting Govardhan Mountain on his little finger. This gives the message that nature and environment should be respected. In Govardhan Puja, Govardhan Mountain is made from cow dung and worshiped, thereby expressing gratitude towards nature. Also, God is pleased by organizing Annakoot and Chhappan Bhog.

Importance of Annakoot in Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja is considered incomplete without Annakoot. Annakoot is an important part of Govardhan Puja. On the day of Govardhan Puja, 56 or 108 types of dishes are offered to Lord Krishna, which are called Annakoot. Annakoot includes butter-mishri, milk-cream, barfi, and many other sweets. Chhappan Bhog is offered to Shri Krishna. The dishes prepared in Annakoot are distributed collectively after offering them to God, which also gives the message of social interaction and brotherhood.

How did the tradition of Govardhan Puja begin?

The tradition of Govardhan Puja is based on a mythological story. When Lord Indra troubled the people of Braj by continuously raining, Lord Krishna protected everyone by lifting Govardhan Mountain on his little finger. Govardhan Puja is performed to commemorate this incident. The construction of a mountain made of cow dung is considered a symbol of this event, which gives the message of Lord Krishna protecting the people of Braj by using the power of nature.