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Annakut & Goverdhan Pooja on 4th Day of Diwali Festival. Diwali, the festival of lights, encompasses a fascinating array of traditions and rituals, and one of the lesser-known but equally significant observances is the 4th Goverdhan Pooja.
This day holds a unique place in the hearts of devotees, signifying more than just another religious ritual.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the history and significance of the 4th Goverdhan Pooja, uncover the date of celebration, explore the different regional names for this observance, and understand how it’s celebrated, all culminating in a deeper appreciation of this remarkable Diwali tradition.
History and Significance of Goverdhan Pooja on Diwali
To comprehend the relevance of Goverdhan Pooja, we must step back in time to the era of Lord Krishna.
According to Hindu mythology, the people of Vrindavan, where Krishna spent his childhood, used to perform an annual ritual to appease Lord Indra, the god of rain.
Lord Krishna, in his wisdom, questioned the purpose of this ritual and encouraged the people to worship the Govardhan Hill, which provided them with sustenance.
This act angered Lord Indra, who retaliated with torrential rain and thunderstorms to punish the people of Vrindavan.
In response, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill with his little finger, creating an enormous umbrella that protected the people and cattle from the wrath of Indra.
Realizing the futility of his anger, Lord Indra bowed to Lord Krishna, and the rain ceased.
Goverdhan Pooja, which falls on the fourth day of Diwali, symbolizes this historic event and the triumph of faith over the forces of nature.
It teaches us the importance of protecting and nurturing our environment.
Date of Celebration
Goverdhan Pooja takes place on the fourth day of Diwali, which usually falls in the month of October or November, depending on the lunar calendar.
This day is marked by various rituals that honor Lord Krishna and the Govardhan Hill.
Different Names in Different Parts of India
The significance of Goverdhan Pooja transcends regional boundaries, and it goes by various names in different parts of India.
In North India, it is celebrated as Annakut, literally meaning a mountain of food.
In Gujarat, it’s known as the Bestu Varas and is a part of the Gujarati New Year.
In some regions, it’s observed as Padwa or Bali Pratipada, signifying the bond between husband and wife.
How It’s Celebrated
Goverdhan Pooja is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.
Devotees prepare a variety of vegetarian dishes, creating a symbolic mountain of food offerings to Lord Krishna. These offerings are artistically arranged and displayed for worship.
Temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill come alive with elaborate decorations, bhajans (devotional songs), and processions.
Devotees circumambulate the mountain of food, expressing their gratitude and reverence for nature’s blessings.
In some regions, people also perform a ‘Parikrama,’ which involves circumambulating the hill, typically in the form of an artful design on the floor.
Conclusion
The 4th Goverdhan Pooja during Diwali is a reminder of Lord Krishna’s divine intervention and his teachings on protecting nature.
It illustrates the significance of faith and devotion, showcasing how even a single act of kindness can influence the course of events.
As we celebrate this beautiful tradition, let us not only offer our devotion but also reflect on the importance of preserving and nurturing our environment, just as Lord Krishna protected the people of Vrindavan under the Govardhan Hill.
Goverdhan Pooja is more than a ritual; it’s a timeless message of the power of faith, unity, and our role as stewards of the world around us.