As the sparkle of Diwali diyas begins to fade, another beautiful festival quietly unfolds across India — Govardhan Puja. Coming right after the grand celebrations of lights, this day may seem modest in comparison, yet it carries a tale of divine courage, devotion, and gratitude that has echoed for centuries.
But have you ever wondered — why exactly do we celebrate Govardhan Puja after Diwali? The answer lies deep in the heart of Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna’s love for his people turned a storm into a story of faith.
The Legend: When Krishna Lifted a Mountain
Long ago, in the pastoral village of Gokul, the people lived in harmony with nature. Every year, they performed a ritual to please Lord Indra, the god of rain, offering prayers for good monsoons and fertile crops.
But one year, young Krishna questioned this tradition.
He asked, “Shouldn’t we worship the mountain that gives us grass for our cows, food for our families, and water for our fields?”
Persuaded by his words, the villagers offered their prayers to Govardhan Hill instead.
Furious at being ignored, Indra unleashed torrential rains and storms upon Gokul. Panic spread — the villagers, their homes, and their cattle were all in danger.
That’s when Krishna, calm and smiling, lifted the entire Govardhan Hill on his little finger, turning it into a vast umbrella that shielded everyone from the downpour. For seven days and nights, the people stood beneath the mountain’s protection — safe, dry, and full of faith.
When the storm finally ceased, Indra realised his folly and bowed before Krishna.
And so, the people of Gokul began celebrating Govardhan Puja — to honour that miraculous act and the divine protector who stood by them in their darkest hour.
Symbolism: From Diwali’s Light to Govardhan’s Gratitude
Diwali marks the victory of light over darkness — a celebration of triumph and joy.
But Govardhan Puja, which follows immediately after, adds a deeper layer to this sentiment.
It’s a reminder that light isn’t just what shines — it’s also what shelters.
While Diwali celebrates the win of good over evil, Govardhan Puja celebrates protection, humility, and gratitude — virtues that keep that light alive.
Govardhan Puja 2025: Date, Time, and Rituals
In 2025, Govardhan Puja will be celebrated on October 22, a day after Diwali.
Here’s the auspicious timing for rituals this year:
- Pratahkal Muhurat (Morning): 06:26 AM to 08:42 AM
- Pratipada Tithi Begins: 05:54 PM, October 21
- Pratipada Tithi Ends: 08:16 PM, October 22
- Sayankala Muhurat (Evening): 03:29 PM to 05:44 PM
These moments are considered spiritually charged for offering prayers and performing the Annakut — the “mountain of food.”
How India Celebrates Govardhan Puja
Across the country, the celebration takes on different hues but one unifying emotion — devotion to Krishna.
🌾 Building the Sacred Hill:
Families create small replicas of Govardhan Hill using clay or cow dung, decorating them with flowers, lamps, and food offerings.
🥣 Annakut Feast:
A grand spread of food — vegetables, sweets, rice, and milk products — is offered to the deity. This Annakut, meaning “mountain of food,” represents abundance and gratitude.
🚶♀️ Parikrama:
Devotees walk around the hill or its symbolic model, singing bhajans and offering prayers.
🎨 Regional Joys:
In Gujarat, colourful rangolis adorn homes, while songs of Krishna’s valor fill the air.
In Maharashtra, the festival blends with Annakut celebrations and the worship of cows, honouring their nurturing role in human life.
In Mathura and Vrindavan, it becomes a spectacle of devotion — with thousands participating in processions and singing “Govardhan Giridhari Lal ki Jai!”
The Deeper Meaning
Govardhan Puja isn’t just a myth retold; it’s a message renewed every year.
It reminds us that true faith is not in grand rituals, but in respecting nature, helping others, and remaining humble — even when we hold mountains on our fingers.
So, as you light your diyas and share sweets this festive season, take a moment to bow in gratitude — for the unseen forces, divine or human, that protect and sustain us every day.
This Govardhan Puja, may we all find strength in faith and grace in gratitude.