Jai Shri Krishna readers. Deepawali, the festival of lights, paints Bhaarat (India) in vibrant hues of joy, and devotion. While the entire nation rejoices during this auspicious period, the day after Lakshmi Puja holds a unique and profound significance for many, particularly for the Gujarati community. This day is celebrated as Govardhan Puja and also marks the Gujarati New Year, known as Bestu Varas. It’s a day brimming with devotion, gratitude, and the promise of a fresh start.
So, let me share with you what the day is all about, especially for the ones who are unaware about it.
The Legend of Govardhan: A Divine Act of Protection
Govardhan Puja is primarily celebrated to commemorate a pivotal event in the life of Lord Krishna, as described in the Bhagavata Purana. The story goes that Lord Krishna, in his childhood, saw the villagers of Vrindavan preparing elaborate offerings to Lord Indra, the king of the heavens and the god of rain. Krishna, in his divine wisdom, questioned this practice. He argued that the villagers should worship what sustained them directly – the cows that provided milk and sustenance, and the Govardhan Hill that provided pasture for their cattle and protection.
Persuaded by Krishna, the villagers shifted their devotion from Indra to Govardhan Hill. Enraged by this perceived insult, Lord Indra unleashed torrential rains upon Vrindavan, determined to flood the village and punish its inhabitants. To protect his devotees, the young Krishna lifted the entire Govardhan Hill on his little finger, holding it aloft for seven days and nights. Under its shelter, the villagers and their cattle found refuge from Indra’s wrath.
Realizing his folly and the supreme power of Krishna, Indra finally bowed down in submission. Govardhan Puja, therefore, is a celebration of Lord Krishna’s divine protection, his humility in guiding his devotees, and the triumph of selfless devotion over arrogance. It’s a day to remember that true sustenance comes from the earth and from divine grace.
Lord Krishna, among his many names, is also known as Govardhan Nath, in respect to his deed of protecting his fellow villagers.
The Rituals of Govardhan Puja
The central ritual of Govardhan Puja is the Annakot, meaning “a mountain of food.” Devotees prepare a vast array of vegetarian dishes – sweets, savouries, curries, and different types of bread – and stack them in front of the deities, often symbolically arranged in the shape of Govardhan Hill. This offering is a gesture of gratitude for Krishna’s protection and a prayer for continued abundance.
Many also term this ritual as Chhappan Bhog – where the word “Chhappan” literally translates to fifty-six and “Bhog” means the food offered to the divine. There are many reasons as why 56 types for dishes are offered, though one stands apart where its believed that Krishna was offered meals eight times a day and when he held on to the Govardhan Hill for seven days in a row, he couldn’t be fed so seven days multiplied by eight meals a day makes fifty-six. And this feast was offered to him on the this very day.
In many temples, a replica of Govardhan Hill is created using adorned with flowers, and offered prayers. Cows, which are revered in Hinduism as symbols of purity and motherhood, are also specially decorated and worshipped on this day, reflecting their crucial role in the pastoral life of Vrindavan and their connection to Lord Krishna.
Bestu Varas: The Gujarati New Year
For the Gujarati community, the day of Govardhan Puja holds an additional, immensely significant meaning: it marks the beginning of their New Year, Bestu Varas. This tradition stems from the Vikram Samvat calendar, an ancient Hindu calendar. While most of North India celebrates the New Year on Chaitra Sud Padwa (in March-April), Gujaratis follow a different cycle, considering the day after Diwali as the start of a new financial and spiritual year.
Bestu Varas is a time of immense joy, optimism, and fresh starts. Homes are cleaned and decorated, new account books (Chopda Pujan) are opened, worshipped and families gather to exchange greetings and good wishes. The atmosphere is filled with festive meals, visiting relatives and friends, and seeking blessings from elders.
The philosophy behind celebrating the New Year on this day is deeply rooted in the concept of cleansing and renewal. Just as Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness, the day after serves as an opportunity to shed old burdens, forgive past transgressions, and embark on a new journey with a positive outlook and renewed determination. It’s a time for introspection, setting new goals, and strengthening family bonds.
A Confluence of Faith and Culture
The combined celebration of Govardhan Puja and Bestu Varas beautifully illustrates the rich tapestry of Bhaarat’s culture and spirituality. It’s a testament to the diverse ways in which communities express their faith and mark significant milestones. While Govardhan Puja reminds us of divine protection and the importance of ecological balance, Bestu Varas inspires us to embrace new beginnings with hope and enthusiasm.
As families gather, prayers are offered, and sweets are shared, the air on this day is thick with devotion, tradition, and the joyous anticipation of a prosperous year ahead. It’s a time when ancient legends blend seamlessly with contemporary aspirations, reminding us that faith, gratitude, and the spirit of renewal are eternal guiding lights.
Wishing you all on the auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja and Gujarati New Year, with wishes that the times to come would bring you joy, good health and prosperity. Jai Shri Krishna.