Grand Celebration of Annakut Festival and Govardhan Puja at Delhi Akshardham

Mahesh Dhoundiyal - Delhi

New Delhi, November 2, 2024 – Continuing a cherished tradition, this year’s Annakut and Govardhan Puja were celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm in Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, New Delhi drawing thousands of devotees who participated with faith and excitement. Inspired by H.H. Mahant Swami Maharaj, over 1,600 Swaminarayan temples and cultural centers worldwide honor Annakut and other Hindu festivals with devotion and harmony.

Today, Govardhan Puja began at 10:00 AM in the presence of Pujya Doctor Swamiji. This celebration commemorates an event from 5,000 years ago, when Bhagavan Shri Krishna, as a young child, lifted the mighty Govardhan Mountain on his little finger to protect Gokul’s residents from the wrath of Indra. Held on the first day of the waxing moon after Diwali, Govardhan Puja offers devotees a chance to express gratitude to God.

From early morning, devotees gathered in large numbers, filling the temple with a vibrant, spiritual atmosphere. A special replica of Govardhan Mountain, traditional rangoli art, and the chanting of Vedic mantras by sadhus created a deeply devotional setting. On this occasion, Pujya Doctor Swamiji said, “According to the Gujarati calendar, the month of Kartik marks the beginning of the New Year. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all of you for a life filled with divinity and prosperity. We pray to H.H. Mahant Swami Maharaj for peace and harmony throughout the world.”

More than 1,556 satvik vegetarian dishes were offered to God in the Temple. Remarkably, all these dishes were lovingly prepared by volunteers and devotees, reflecting their deep love and devotion. Pujya Doctor Swamiji and other senior Sadhus encouraged everyone to embrace mutual harmony and divine love.

Devotees continued to visit the temple until late evening, drawn to the Annakut darshan and festivities. This celebration embodies the sentiment of “Offering everything back to the Creator,” a reminder that all we possess is by God’s grace, and dedicating it to Him brings true happiness and contentment.