Annakut Mahotsav (also called Govardhan Puja or Annakoot Utsav) is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated the day after Diwali, marking the beginning of the New Year according to the Hindu lunar calendar in some regions (especially in Gujarat and among Vaishnav communities).
Here’s a detailed overview 👇
🌾 Meaning of “Annakut”
- Annakut literally means “mountain of food” — Anna (grain/food) + Kut (mountain or heap).
- It symbolizes gratitude to God for the abundance of food and sustenance provided throughout the year.
🙏 Religious Significance
- The festival is dedicated to Lord Krishna, commemorating the event when He lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Indra, the god of rain.
- To celebrate this divine act, devotees prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian dishes as a symbolic “mountain of food” (Annakut) to Lord Krishna.
🍛 Rituals and Celebrations
- Preparation of Food:
Devotees prepare hundreds of dishes, sweets, snacks, vegetables, rice, fruits, and delicacies. - Annakut Offering:
The food is artistically arranged before the deity in temples and homes — representing Govardhan Hill. - Aarti and Darshan:
After the offering, devotees perform Aarti and sing devotional songs. - Govardhan Puja:
In many regions, a symbolic Govardhan mountain made of cow dung, mud, or food is worshipped to honor nature and Krishna’s protection. - Prasad Distribution:
The offered food is later distributed among devotees as prasad, symbolizing divine blessings and community sharing.
🛕 Where It’s Celebrated
- Prominently in Vaishnav temples, especially Swaminarayan Mandirs, ISKCON temples, and Govardhan (Mathura, Uttar Pradesh).
- In Gujarat, it coincides with Bestu Varas (Gujarati New Year).
- In Swaminarayan tradition, the Annakut Mahotsav is one of the grandest celebrations of the year, with beautifully decorated food displays offered to Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
🌟 Symbolism
Annakut Mahotsav represents:
- Gratitude to God for nourishment and protection
- Unity and sharing within the community
- Harmony with nature, as shown by Krishna’s teaching to worship Govardhan Hill instead of Indra
