Goverdhan puja is being observed on the fourth day of 5-day Diwali celebration. It is a day on which people worship Goverdhan. This year, it is being observed on November 8. Goverdhan Puja is observed a day after Diwali. This puja is being done to revere Goverdhan mountain which save the lives of many people during critical rain. Know more.
The day is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goverdhan mountain which is located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. On this day, along with worshipping Lord Krishna and Goverdhan parbat, devotees conduct special prayers sessions and prepare special food known as ‘Annakoot’. Devotees worship Krishna by offering Chhappan bhog.
Significance of Goverdhan puja
As per Hindu mythology, people of Vrindavan were used to worship God Indra, the God of Rains. They also offer Indra with various delicacies which was a cruel practice. But, Lord Krishna had decided to opinion of the people of Vrindavan.
He asked them all to worship the Annakut hill or Goverdhan Parbat. Krishna told natives that Goverdhan parbat is saving their lives from drastic conditions by providing food and shelter. This made Indra furious and he flooded the village with incessant rains for seven days. But, Lord Krishna and Goverdhan parbat saved them. Since, then people do Goverdhan puja.
Significance of Chhappan bhog
Food is an integral part of Goverdhan Puja where devotees prepare 56 dishes, also known as Chappan Bhog. In chhappan bhog, different types of dry fruits, sweets, drinks, rice, spices, milk products pickles, vegetables, fruits and namkeen are offered.
Lord Krishna eats eight meals a day. So, villagers decided to prepare 56 meals for him as he saved them from continuous rains for seven days.
