AstrologgerGovardhan Puja
10 November 2026 · Krishna
2026 dates are good-faith estimates from standard panchang references — confirm the exact date and muhurat against a current Panchang before planning.
Significance
On the day after Diwali (Kartika Shukla Pratipada), devotees worship Govardhan hill as a manifestation of Krishna who lifted it to shelter the Vraja community from Indra's wrath. Anna Kut (mountain of food) offerings are made at temples.
Astrological significance
Govardhan Puja falls on the first tithi of the bright fortnight of Kartik, the very next day after the Diwali new moon, as the waxing moon begins again. In some regions this day is also observed as Annakut and as the start of the Gujarati new year (Bestu Varas). Being lunar, its Gregorian date shifts within October and November. In 2026 it falls on Tuesday, 10 November (a few regional calendars list 9 November when the Pratipada tithi is reckoned differently) — always confirm the muhurat with your local panchang.
Month: Kartik · Paksha: Shukla · Shukla Pratipada (first day of the waxing moon) of Kartik — the day after Diwali (Amavasya).
How Govardhan Puja is observed
- Building a small Govardhan hill from cow dung or food and worshipping it
- Offering Annakut, a large spread of vegetarian dishes, at temples
- Recalling Krishna lifting Govardhan hill
- Honouring cattle in rural traditions
- Marking the Gujarati new year (Bestu Varas) in some communities
Frequently asked questions
When is Govardhan Puja in 2026?+
In 2026 it falls on 10 November 2026. As a lunar festival the date shifts each year, so confirm against a current panchang.
What does Govardhan Puja celebrate?+
It recalls Krishna lifting Govardhan hill to shelter his community from heavy rains, and devotees worship the hill and offer Annakut.
What is Annakut?+
Annakut, meaning "mountain of food", is a large offering of many vegetarian dishes arranged before the deity at temples on this day.
What is the calendar significance?+
It falls on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the waxing moon right after the Diwali new moon, and marks the Gujarati new year in some regions.