Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) 2025

About Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food)

Goverdhan Puja, or Annakut or Annakoot as it is also known, is a Hindu festival in which devotees prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian food to Bhagwan (God) Shri Krishna as a mark of gratitude. For Vaishnavas, this day commemorates the incident in the Bhagavata Puran when Bhagwan Shri Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to provide the villagers of Vrindavan shelter from torrential rains. The incident is seen to represent how God will protect all devotees who take singular refuge in him. Devotees offer a mountain of food, metaphorically representing the Govardhan Hill, to God as a ritual remembrance and to renew their faith in taking refuge in God. The festival is observed by most of Hindu denominations all over India and abroad. For Vaishnavas this is one of the important festivals. For the Vallabh Sampradaya (Pushtimarg), the Gaudiya Sampradaya of Chaitanya, and the Swaminarayan Sampradaya etc among others. The Annakut festival occurs on the first lunar day of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, which is the fourth day of Deepawali (Diwali), the Hindu festival of lights, and also the first day of the Vikram Samvat calendar.

Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in India, bringing together communities in celebration of their rich cultural heritage and religious traditions.

History & Significance

The origins of Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) can be traced back to ancient times, deeply rooted in Indian mythology, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. This festival holds immense spiritual and social significance, symbolizing the values, traditions, and unity of the communities that celebrate it.

Over the centuries, Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) has evolved while maintaining its core essence, continuing to inspire devotion and bring joy to millions of people across India and beyond.

How It Is Celebrated

The celebrations of Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) are marked by various traditional rituals, prayers, decorations, and community gatherings. Families prepare special dishes, adorn their homes with lights and decorations, and participate in religious ceremonies.

Community events, cultural programs, music, dance, and processions are common features of the celebrations. The festival atmosphere is filled with joy, devotion, and a sense of togetherness that brings people closer to their roots and to each other.

Where It Happens

Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food) is celebrated across India, with each region adding its unique local traditions and customs to the celebrations.

Travel Tips

If you're planning to visit during Govardhan Puja (Annakoot | Mountain of food), here are some helpful tips:

• Plan Ahead: Book accommodations well in advance as hotels fill up quickly during festival season.
• Respect Traditions: Dress modestly and follow local customs when visiting religious sites or participating in celebrations.
• Arrive Early: Popular celebration venues can get crowded, so arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
• Stay Connected: Keep your mobile phone charged and have backup transportation options as services may be limited during peak celebration times.
• Try Local Food: Festival celebrations often feature special traditional dishes - don't miss the opportunity to try authentic local cuisine.