On the auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared photos of himself with cows and calves on social media. In an Instagram post, he wrote, “May everyone be blessed with peace, happiness, and prosperity on this auspicious occasion of Govardhan Puja.”
PM Modi fed fodder to the cows and calves with his own hands.
Along with the post, the Prime Minister shared three photographs in which he is seen affectionately caressing the cows and calves and feeding them green grass with his own hands. These images reflect the tradition of serving and respecting bovine animals within the Indian Sanatan culture.
The Significance of Govardhan Puja
Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the day following Diwali, on the pratipada (first day) of the bright fortnight of the month of Kartika. This festival symbolises the worship of nature and serves as a reminder that food, water, fertile land, and forests are the foundations of our lives.
According to mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan on his little finger to protect the people of Braj from torrential rain. This event marked the origin of this worship. It conveys the message that in times of crisis, the Divine protects His devotees.
Gratitude Towards Nature and the Cow
On this day, Lord Krishna taught the people of Braj that instead of performing ostentatious rituals (yagyas), one should respect nature and Mount Govardhan—an act that also shattered the ego of Indra, the King of the Deities. Cows and oxen, being the pillars of society and agriculture, are accorded special reverence and care.
Govardhan Puja instils a sense of respect and gratitude toward nature, livestock, and agriculture. The Prime Minister’s photographs bring this very sentiment to life.
