**Govardhan Puja**, also known as **Annakut**, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the **first day of the lunar month of Kartik**, just after Diwali.

**Govardhan Puja**, also known as **Annakut**, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the **first day of the lunar month of Kartik**, just after Diwali. It commemorates **Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan** to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Indra, the god of rain. This act of Krishna symbolizes divine protection and the power of devotion over arrogance.

### Mythological Background

The story behind Govardhan Puja originates from Hindu mythology, where **Lord Krishna** convinces the villagers of Vrindavan to worship Mount Govardhan instead of Indra, the god of rain, as he believed nature deserved their gratitude more than Indra's rituals. Angered, Indra sent heavy rains, and Krishna lifted the entire Govardhan mountain to shield the people and animals, humbling Indra and highlighting the importance of protecting nature【9†source】.

### Rituals and Traditions

1. **Building Govardhan Hill**: In many regions, people construct small models of Mount Govardhan using cow dung, symbolizing the mountain Krishna lifted. These are decorated with flowers and worshipped.

2. **Annakut Offering**: Devotees prepare a large variety of vegetarian dishes, which are offered to Lord Krishna. This "mountain of food" symbolizes abundance and gratitude for nature’s bounty.

3. **Puja and Aarti**: Devotees perform pujas, sing bhajans (devotional songs), and conduct aarti to honor Krishna's protection and strength.

4. **Circumambulation of Govardhan Hill**: In the town of Govardhan near Mathura, devotees perform a ritual called *parikrama*, or circumambulation, around the actual Govardhan Hill to show their devotion.

### Cultural Significance

Govardhan Puja underscores the **relationship between humans and nature**, encouraging respect and gratitude for natural resources. It’s also an expression of Krishna’s teachings on humility and devotion, as it celebrates a moment when humility triumphed over arrogance. Govardhan Puja is widely celebrated in North India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, with great enthusiasm.

### Conclusion

Govardhan Puja is a celebration of divine protection, gratitude for nature, and the victory of humility over pride. This festival reflects Lord Krishna’s message on the importance of caring for nature and fosters a sense of unity and respect among devotees【10†source】【9†source】.