Govardhana Puja | गोवर्धन पूजा

Govardhan Puja (Devanagari: गोवर्धन पूजा; ISO 15919: gōvardhana pūjā) refers to the Worship of Govardhan Hill.

The Festival This joyous festival is observed on the day following Diwali (specifically Kartik Shukla Pratipada). It involves the ceremonial worship of the sacred Govardhan Mountain in the Braj region.

The Legend: Lifting the Hill The festival commemorates the pastime where the child Shri Krishna lifted the massive Govardhan Hill on the tip of the nail of little finger of His left hand for seven days and seven nights.

• Purpose: He did this to provide shelter to the people and cattle of Braj, protecting them from the devastating torrential rains and thunderstorms sent by the demigod Indra in a fit of pride and anger.
• Significance: This event established the worship of the Supreme God in Braj, replacing the traditional worship of celestial gods (Devi-Devatas) like Indra.

Further Reading and Reference

• Alternate Spelling: Govardhan Puja, Govardhan Pooja
• Related Concepts: Govardhan Pooja Festival
• Reference: Prema Rasa Madira - The Intoxicating Bliss of Divine Love, Vol. 1, Ch. 5