Govardhan Puja 2024: Follow these do¡¯s & don¡¯ts for all the good vibes

This year, Diwali's traditional five-day festivity is extended to six days, thanks to the amavasya tithi aligning differently. Govardhan Puja, usually observed right after Diwali, will now be celebrated on November 2, right before Bhai Dooj. This day holds immense meaning, commemorating Lord Krishna's triumph over arrogance and celebrating nature¡¯s bounty, symbolized by Govardhan Hill.

As part of the Puja, devotees create a symbolic Govardhan mountain from cow dung and take a Parikrama, an ancient custom that honours Lord Krishna and the holy cows considered incarnations of Maa Lakshmi. Here¡¯s a quick guide to the do¡¯s and don¡¯ts that make this ritual meaningful and festive.

Here are a few things which you should must do on Govardhan Puja

- Begin with a blessed bath: Start the day with an oil massage and bath to cleanse yourself before offering prayers.

- Light it up: Place a diya near the Tulsi plant and in the northeast corner of your home for prosperity and peace. This diya is said to guide positive energies into your space.

- Parikrama traditions: Circumambulating the totem with family members in clean attire is a mark of unity and blessings.

- Offer the Annakoot prasad: A colorful array of food is prepared and dedicated to Lord Krishna, symbolizing abundance and shared prosperity.

Things to avoid on Govardhan Puja

- Avoid the closed spaces: Cooking the Annakoot feast in an open setting, rather than in enclosed spaces, allows positive energy to flow.

- Say no to the moon: Steer clear of moon-gazing, as the tradition suggests it could disrupt the blessings of this day.

- Cleanliness is key: Wearing dirty clothes for the Parikrama is considered disrespectful, so make sure to dress fresh.

- Skip solo worship: Family worship is strongly encouraged¡ªgroup prayers amplify blessings and are far more auspicious.

- Be mindful of words and actions: Refrain from harsh words and conflict, keeping your actions positive and compassionate.

This year, the unique alignment of Diwali and Govardhan Puja reminds us of adaptability in our traditions. So, get ready to celebrate this twist in the tithi and honor Lord Krishna in the quirkiest, most joyful way possible!