Diwali celebrations may be over, but the festive spirit continues with Govardhan Puja, an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Krishna. Also known as Annakut Puja, the occasion commemorates the time Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. This year, Govardhan Puja is being celebrated on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. From the story behind the festival to its religious significance and puja timings, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Is Govardhan Puja Celebrated After Diwali?
The festival is rooted in the story of Lord Krishna and Govardhan Parvat. According to Hindu belief, the people of Vrindavan traditionally worshipped Lord Indra, the god of rain, hoping for good rainfall and agricultural prosperity.
However, Lord Krishna encouraged the villagers to worship Govardhan Hill instead. He explained that the hill was essential to their everyday lives as it provided grass for cattle, supported agriculture and offered natural resources that sustained the community.
This did not go down well with Lord Indra, who became furious and unleashed torrential rainfall and thunderstorms over Vrindavan. With the village and its cattle at risk, Lord Krishna lifted the mighty Govardhan Parvat on his little finger, allowing everyone to take shelter beneath it. The villagers remained protected for seven days, until Indra eventually realised his mistake and stopped the rains.
This is why Govardhan Puja is celebrated after Diwali. The festival commemorates Krishna’s act of protecting the people of Braj and serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, faith and respect for nature.
Govardhan Puja 2026: Date And Shubh Muhurat
Govardhan Puja falls on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik. In 2026, the festival will be observed on November 10.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Pratipada Tithi begins at 12:31 PM on November 9 and ends at 2 PM on November 10. As per Moneycontrol, the morning puja muhurat for New Delhi is from 6:40 AM to 8:50 AM. Timings can differ from city to city, so devotees are advised to check their local Panchang before performing the rituals.
Rituals And Significance
One of the most important traditions associated with Govardhan Puja is the preparation of Annakut, which literally translates to a mountain of food. Devotees prepare an elaborate spread of vegetarian dishes, sweets and other delicacies and offer them to Lord Krishna as bhog.
In many households, devotees also create a symbolic Govardhan Hill using cow dung, soil or food items and decorate it with flowers. Prayers are offered to Lord Krishna, while cows and cattle are worshipped and decorated in several parts of the country.
In places such as Mathura and Vrindavan, devotees also undertake the Govardhan Parikrama, walking around the sacred hill as an act of devotion.
Also Read: Who Is Amiel Guerin? Meet The French Chef Behind Deepika Padukone’s Diwali 2026 Feast In Bengaluru
Let us know in the comments how you celebrate the festival at your home!
Cover Image Courtesy: Flickr
FAQs
Why is Govardhan Puja celebrated?
Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Parvat on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from heavy rains and thunderstorms caused by Lord Indra.
Why is Govardhan Puja also called Annakut?
It is called Annakut because devotees prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian dishes and sweets to Lord Krishna as bhog.
How is Govardhan Puja celebrated?
Devotees worship Lord Krishna, prepare Annakut bhog, create symbolic Govardhan Hills using cow dung or food items, and worship cattle. Many also perform Govardhan Parikrama.
