Patna Celebrates Govardhan Puja, Prepares for Bhai Dooj Festivities

Patna marked a vibrant celebration of Govardhan Puja on October 22, 2023, honoring the day when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect Vrindavan from torrential rains, as detailed in Hindu scriptures. Festivities included the Annakut festival, observed at key locations such as the Iskcon Temple and Nagababa Thakurbari, where a diverse array of 56 edible offerings were made to Lord Krishna, featuring fresh produce from the season’s harvest.

In a show of devotion, local cattle-rearers adorned their cows with new bells and painted their horns before offering prayers. Devotees crafted silhouettes of Lord Krishna using cow dung cakes, symbolizing their reverence. Many took a pledge to protect cows, reinforcing the cultural significance of this day. “Worshipping Govardhan brings wealth and prosperity,” stated Adikarta Das, co-chairman of Iskcon Temple, who led the rituals.

Mass Participation and Cultural Significance

The temple saw approximately 5,000 devotees participate in the ‘parikrama’ around a sculpture representing the Govardhan Hill, constructed from five tonnes of halwa made of dried fruits. The atmosphere was filled with chants of ‘Hare Krishna’ during the ‘aarti’ ceremony. Following the puja, the halwa was distributed among attendees as ‘prasad’, a customary practice that symbolizes sharing blessings.

Following the celebrations for Govardhan Puja and Annakut, the city is now preparing for Bhai Dooj on October 23, an important festival celebrated primarily by the Kayastha community. This year, devotees will gather at temples for the sacred Dawat Puja, which involves worshipping a pen and ink pot alongside Lord Chitragupta and his twelve sons, who are emblematic of writing and record-keeping.

At least 43 groups from the Kayastha community are organizing prayers and cultural events. Notably, the Shri Chitragupta Sabha in Patna will unveil a new idol of the mythological scribe of Lord Yama, the god of death, at Mithila Colony in Nasriganj. This event will be followed by prasad distribution and an evening program featuring Maithili folk songs and bhajans.

Community Unity and Engagement

Gardanibagh Thakurbari will host its own grand Chitragupta Puja, commencing at 09:00 with hawan (fire ritual) and dawat-kalam worship until noon. Local dignitaries, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, ministers, Members of Parliament, and IAS-IPS officers, are expected to attend the temple. Ranbir Nandan, president of Gardanibagh Thakurbari and chairman of the Bihar State Religious Trust Board, announced plans for a community feast intended for 10,000 participants, emphasizing unity beyond caste and creed.

The historic temple has been a site of significant visits in the past, including by prominent figures such as Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan. This year’s events not only highlight the spiritual significance of the festivals but also reflect a deep-rooted tradition of community and cultural engagement in Patna.