Govardhana Puja

The 10th canto of the Srimad Bhagavatam tells so many interesting pastimes of Lord Krishna. One of the most loved among them is The Lifting of Govardhan Hill.

This beautiful pastime describes how Lord Krishna, just 7 years old, lifted the mighty Govardhan Hill on the tip of His little finger for seven days and nights! He did this to protect the people and animals of Vrndavan from the fierce storm sent by Indra, the King of Heaven. When Indra realized Krishna's divine power, he surrendered at His lotus feet.

At ISKCON Dwarka, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and spiritual joy. Devotees prepare delicious sweets, special halava, and a wide variety of offerings. The bhoga is then beautifully arranged in the shape of a hill — symbolizing Govardhan.

After offering the bhoga, devotees circumambulate (parikrama) around the Govardhan hill replica while singing ecstatic kirtans. The mood is full of devotion and joy. Finally, the sanctified food (prasadam) is lovingly distributed to everyone present.