As the festive season approaches, this year’s Aswayuja Amavasya has created a unique scenario, leading to two days of Diwali celebrations on October 31st and November 1st. This overlap has caused some confusion regarding the date for Govardhan Puja, a cherished part of the Diwali festival. While some are inclined to celebrate on November 1, others suggest November 2. Let’s clarify the auspicious date for Govardhan Puja in 2024 and how to perform the rituals that honor this significant day.
Understanding Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is traditionally observed on the fourth day of the five-day Diwali festival. It commemorates Lord Krishna’s legendary lifting of the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from heavy rains. This festival is also known as Annakoot, meaning “Mountain of Food,” as families prepare a lavish spread of delicacies to express gratitude to God.
On this day, devotees create an idol of Govardhana Maharaj using cow dung, which is then worshipped alongside family members. This year, with Diwali spanning two days, many are uncertain about when to celebrate this important festival.
When to Celebrate Govardhan Puja in 2024
In 2024, Kartika Pratipada Tithi begins on November 1 at 6:16 PM and ends on November 2 at 8:21 PM. Based on the Udaya Tithi, Govardhan Puja will be celebrated on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
Auspicious Timing for Govardhan Puja
The auspicious time for performing Govardhan Puja this year is on November 2, from 6:30 PM to 8:45 PM. This gives devotees a window of 2 hours and 45 minutes to conduct their rituals.
How to Perform Govardhan Puja at Home
To celebrate Govardhan Puja at home, follow these steps:
- Early Morning Rituals: Wake up during Brahma Muhurtam, take a bath, and worship Lord Krishna.
- Idol Creation: In the afternoon, make an idol of Govardhan Maharaj in your courtyard. Alongside it, craft idols of a cow, calf, and the mountain.
- Decoration: Adorn all idols with flowers, yellow saffron, and sandalwood.
- Singing Bhajans: Gather as a family and sing bhajans in praise of Krishna.
- Offerings: Present milk, tambulam, milk products, and a variety of dishes known as Annakoot. It is customary to offer 56 different food items to Lord Krishna.
- Circumambulation: Mix water with milk and circumambulate the idol of Krishna seven times, while reciting prayers.
- Lighting the Lamp: Light a ghee lamp and perform arati, followed by praises to Govardhan Maharaj and seeking blessings from the elders in the household.
Conclusion
As we approach Diwali and Govardhan Puja, let us embrace the traditions that bind us together while clarifying the auspicious date for celebration. This year, honor the spirit of Govardhan Puja by following the rituals that deepen our connection with the divine and express our gratitude for the abundance in our lives. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Diwali!
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