Govardhan Puja comes after Diwali day and is popular as Annakut among Hindu worshippers. In some places, it is also referred to as Badi Diwali or the fourth day of Diwali. This also signifies the first day of Vikram Samvat (Hindu) Calendar. Goverdhan Puja also marks the New Year for the western states like Gujarat and hence celebrates this day as “Bestubaras”. Some celebrate this day as Padwa or Balipratipada which solemnizes the victory of Lord Vishnu over King Bali.

Goverdhan Muhurat timings- Puja timings:

This will be celebrated on 8th November (Thursday) in year 2018.

Govardhan Puja Pratahkal Muhurat = 05:59 to 08:42

Duration = 2 Hours 43 Mins

Govardhan Puja Sayankal Muhurat = 16:52 to 19:35

Duration = 2 Hours 43 Mins

Pratipada Tithi Begins = 03:01 on 8/Nov/2018

Pratipada Tithi Ends = 02:37 on 9/Nov/2018

Mythology associated:

It is a belief that on this distinguished day; Lord Krishna had held the Govardhan parvat (hill) on his small finger for seven days to save the villagers from massive rainfall in Mathura under which the Gopi Gopika remained seven days happily. On the seventh day God kept Govardhan Mountain down and said to celebrate Annakoot festival by worshiping Govardhan every year. From then onwards, this festival was celebrated in the name of Annakoot among the Brajwasi and nearby places.

Rituals on Goverdhan Puja:

. It has a special significance in Hindu mythology as cows are worshiped in Govardhan Puja and they have been fed their favourite foods.

. By feeding cows followed by doing aartis are considered special rituals. In this day, bhog (food) made from wheat, rice, grains, kadhi (made with gram flour) and vegetables are also cooked.

. After making Goverdhan Mountain by cow dung, worshipping that Govardhan with water mouli, roli rice and bhog.