Govardhan Puja 2025 at ISKCON Dwarka: Annakuta, Deep Daan and Devotional Festivities - Honouring Lord Krishna’s Divine Grace

Govardhan Puja 2025 at ISKCON Dwarka: Annakuta, Deep Daan and Devotional Festivities - Honouring Lord Krishna’s Divine Grace (image: canva)

On 22nd October 2025, the Sri Sri Rukmini Dwarakadhish Temple (ISKCON Dwarka) in New Delhi will radiate divine joy and devotion as thousands of devotees gather to celebrate Govardhan Puja 2025, a sacred festival that commemorates Lord Krishna’s divine act of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan from the fierce rains sent by Lord Indra, the God of Rain.

This auspicious day will be marked by soulful kirtans, devotional pujas, vibrant decorations, and a grand Annakuta (mountain of food) offering, symbolizing faith, gratitude, and divine protection.

Annakuta Mahotsav

The highlight of the festival at ISKCON Dwarka will be the Annakuta display, an awe-inspiring creation representing the Govardhan Hill. Standing 10 feet high and 20 feet long, the artistic display will be made entirely from rice, sweets, halwa, fruits, and other delicacies, beautifully arranged to depict Radha Kund, Shyam Kund, cows, peacocks, trees, and rivers, recreating the pastoral charm of Vrindavan.

This grand offering signifies the devotees’ love and gratitude toward Lord Krishna, who protected the people of Vrindavan by teaching them the value of faith, humility, and service to nature.

Sacred Rituals: Worship of Gaumata and Divine Offerings

The celebrations will begin with the worship of Gaumata (the sacred cow) and her calf, symbolizing the deep bond between humanity, nature, and divinity. The word “Govardhan” itself means “the one who nourishes cows,” making this ritual the heart of the festival.

From Vrindavan to Mayapur, London, and New York, devotees across ISKCON temples celebrate Govardhan Puja with mountain-like food offerings, devotional bhajans, and acts of service, expressing gratitude for divine protection and natural abundance.

Interactive and Spiritual Highlights

Adding a modern touch to this timeless tradition, ISKCON Dwarka will feature a special selfie point where visitors can pose as if lifting the Govardhan Hill, symbolically re-enacting Lord Krishna’s act of compassion and strength.

The celebration will also include:

• Maha Abhishek (grand bathing ceremony of Lord Krishna)
• Soulful kirtans and devotional dances
• Annakuta Prasadam distribution

Message from ISKCON Dwarka Leadership

Reflecting on the spiritual essence of Govardhan Puja, Shri Gaur Prabhu, Vice President of ISKCON Dwarka, shared, “Govardhan Puja reminds us that real worship lies in humility, service, and gratitude. Lord Krishna taught us to depend on divine grace rather than pride or power.” He added, “At ISKCON Dwarka, Govardhan Puja isn’t just a festival, it’s an experience of divine love and unity that bridges the past and the present in a single, luminous moment.”

Spiritual Significance of Govardhan Puja

The festival signifies faith in divine protection and harmony with nature. By worshipping Govardhan Hill and Gaumata, devotees acknowledge their dependence on natural elements and express gratitude toward Lord Krishna for his endless compassion. Performing Govardhan Puja rituals with devotion is believed to:

• Bring prosperity and protection from misfortune
• Strengthen faith and humility
• Remove ego and obstacles
• Enhance spiritual growth and peace at home