Govardhan Puja, also called Govardhan Pooja or Annakut, will be celebrated on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, according to Drik Panchang for New Delhi. The festival honours Lord Krishna, who is believed to have lifted Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan. Families worship Krishna, prepare food offerings and create a small Govardhan hill at home.
What Is Govardhan Puja?
Govardhan Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Krishna and his protection of the people and cattle of Vrindavan. Celebrated during Diwali festivities, it involves worshipping Govardhan Hill, preparing food offerings and expressing gratitude for nature and nourishment.
Govardhan Puja vs Annakut: Is It the Same?
Govardhan Puja and Annakut are closely connected. Govardhan Puja focuses on Krishna and Govardhan Hill, while Annakut refers to the large offering of food prepared for the deity. Many temples and households celebrate both on the same day.
When Is Govardhan Puja in 2026?
Govardhan Puja falls on Tuesday, 10 November 2026. It is observed on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the waxing lunar fortnight. According to Drik Panchang, the Pratipada tithi begins on 9 November and ends on 10 November. (Drik Panchang)
Govardhan Puja Time (Pratipada Tithi and Muhurat)
For New Delhi, the morning Govardhan Puja muhurat is 6:40 AM to 8:50 AM on 10 November 2026. The Pratipada tithi runs from 12:31 PM on 9 November to 2:00 PM on 10 November. Timings vary by location, so check your local Panchang before performing the puja. (Drik Panchang)
Why Do Some Calendars Say 9 or 10 November?
The Pratipada tithi begins on 9 November, which is why some calendars may mention that date. However, Govardhan Puja is observed on 10 November in New Delhi because the relevant tithi prevails on that morning. Regional customs and local sunrise timings can affect observance.
For the complete festival schedule, explore our Diwali 2026 date and five-day calendar.
Govardhan Puja Katha: Krishna, Indra and Govardhan Hill
According to Hindu tradition, the people of Vrindavan once prepared offerings to worship Lord Indra, the god associated with rain. Krishna encouraged them to honour Govardhan Hill, the land and the natural resources that supported their lives.
Indra became angry and sent heavy rain and storms over the village. To protect the people and cattle, Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger and sheltered them beneath it for seven days. Indra eventually recognised Krishna’s divine power.
The story represents humility, devotion and gratitude towards nature. Read more about Krishna’s life in our guide to Krishna Janmashtami.
How to Do Govardhan Puja at Home
Families can observe Govardhan Puja at home with a simple arrangement, traditional offerings and prayers to Lord Krishna.
How to Make Govardhan with Gobar or Clay
You can create a small Govardhan hill using cow dung, traditionally known as gobar, or clean clay.
- Shape the material into a small hill on a clean base.
- Add small figures of cows and Krishna, if available.
- Decorate the hill with flowers, leaves and rangoli.
- Arrange food offerings around it.
- Offer prayers and perform a respectful parikrama around the representation.
Cow dung is used in some traditions because of its association with cattle, agriculture and rural life. If using it, handle it hygienically and wash your hands afterwards. Clay is a suitable alternative.
Items Needed for Govardhan Puja
Prepare these items according to your family’s custom:
- Cow dung or clay for the Govardhan representation
- A picture or idol of Lord Krishna
- Flowers and leaves
- Diyas and cotton wicks
- Incense sticks
- Sweets, fruits and cooked food
- Grains and traditional offerings
- Water and a puja plate
Step-by-Step Govardhan Puja Vidhi
- Clean the puja area and prepare the Govardhan representation.
- Decorate it with flowers and place Krishna’s idol or picture nearby.
- Light a diya and offer flowers, water and food.
- Recite Krishna prayers or bhajans.
- Perform parikrama if customary in your family.
- Distribute the food offerings as prasad.
What Is Annakut? 56 Bhog Explained
Annakut means “mountain of food” and refers to the variety of dishes offered to Lord Krishna during the festival. In many traditions, devotees prepare 56 offerings, known as Chappan Bhog, including sweets, savoury dishes, fruits, grains and vegetables.
The offerings symbolise gratitude for food and the nourishment provided by nature. The exact dishes vary between temples and households. Traditional offerings may include rice, puri, vegetables, kadhi, sweets and other regional preparations.
Govardhan Puja Rangoli and Design Ideas
Decorate your puja space with rangoli inspired by Govardhan Hill, lotus flowers, peacocks or Krishna’s flute. You can place small diyas around the design and use flowers and leaves to decorate the Govardhan representation. Keep the walking area clear and place lamps safely.
Govardhan Parikrama and Celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan
Mathura, Vrindavan and the Govardhan area hold special significance for Krishna devotees. Many pilgrims undertake Govardhan Parikrama, a devotional walk around the sacred hill, while temples organise prayers and Annakut offerings. If you cannot visit these places, you can participate through home worship and Krishna bhajans.
Govardhan Puja Wishes and Messages
- May Lord Krishna bless your home with peace, devotion and happiness. Happy Govardhan Puja!
- May this Govardhan Puja remind us to be grateful for nature and the food we receive.
- Wishing you and your family a joyful Annakut filled with faith and togetherness.
Listen to Krishna Bhajans
Make your Govardhan Puja more devotional with Krishna bhajans from Soulful Bhajans. You can also explore top Radhe Rani bhajans and morning bhajans to play during your prayers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Govardhan Puja celebrated?
Govardhan Puja commemorates Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the people and cattle of Vrindavan from Indra’s storms. The story represents devotion, humility and gratitude towards nature.
What date is Govardhan Puja in 2026?
Govardhan Puja falls on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, according to Drik Panchang for New Delhi. Regional calendars may differ, so check your local Panchang.
What is the difference between Govardhan Puja and Annakut?
Govardhan Puja honours Krishna and Govardhan Hill. Annakut refers to the variety of food offerings made to Krishna, often as part of the same celebration.
What is offered on Govardhan Puja?
Traditional offerings include grains, rice, vegetables, sweets, fruits and dishes such as puri and kadhi. The menu varies by region and family.
Is Govardhan Puja the same as Diwali?
No. Diwali is associated with Lakshmi Puja, while Govardhan Puja is a separate festival observed during the Diwali period. In 2026, the supplied festival calendar places Govardhan Puja on 10 November.
Why is cow dung used to make Govardhan?
In some traditions, cow dung represents the importance of cattle and their connection to agriculture and rural life. Families may also use clay to make a small Govardhan hill.
