The five Diwali observances
India reference calendar: five observances, not five consecutive dates. Naraka Chaturdashi and Diwali share November 8 in 2026; Kali Chaudas is November 7. Local traditions and muhurats can differ.
Govardhan Puja falls on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 in the India reference calendar. Also celebrated as Annakut, it remembers Krishna's protection of the people of Braj and gives thanks for food and nature.
Meaning & tradition
The Govardhan story celebrates Krishna lifting the hill to shelter the people of Braj. Annakut means a mountain of food: temples arrange many dishes, while a home offering can be small and simple.
City panchangSimple puja vidhi
- 1
Prepare a clean place with Krishna's image or a symbolic Govardhan hill according to your family custom.
- 2
Arrange modest portions of fresh vegetarian food; do not feel obliged to prepare 56 dishes.
- 3
Offer water and flowers, remember Krishna and give thanks for farmers, animals and the earth.
- 4
Offer the food, perform aarti and, where customary, a gentle symbolic parikrama.
- 5
Share prasad promptly and store leftovers safely to avoid waste.
Prayer
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
Salutations to Lord Vasudeva. A simple Krishna/Vishnu prayer for the home observance.
Aarti & prayersPuja thali & offerings
- Rice, dal and seasonal vegetables
- Roti, fruit and a small sweet
- Water, flowers and a supervised diya
Celebrate thoughtfully
In the reference calendar, Govardhan is November 10, not automatically the civil day after Diwali.
Use clean symbolic materials, wash hands, and keep cow-dung representations separate from food. Never force or frighten animals.
Common questions
When is Govardhan Puja 2026?
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 in the India reference calendar. Confirm local Pratipada and your family's observance time.
Are 56 dishes required for Annakut?
No. Chappan bhog is a devotional custom, especially in temples. Offer a small amount of available vegetarian food at home and avoid waste.
Calendar reference: Drik Panchang · 2026