Mangal Mandir Jagrati Class Lesson 9 November 18, 2012

LORD LIFTING MOUNT WITH HIS LITTLE FINGER

Govardhan Puja is performed to celebrate Lord Krishna’s lifting of Mount Govardhan. Lord Krishna is therefore known as “Govardhandhari.” Lord Krishna persuaded the people of Gokul to worship Mount Govardhan and the surrounding land and not Lord . Lord Indra was angry that the people of Gokul had stopped worshipping him and offering him prayers. The people of Gokul were sheltered and protected from the fury of Lord Indra. Lord Krishna protected the people of Gokul for seven days and nights, providing food, shelter, and protection from the heavy rains and storms sent by Lord Indra.

This day is also celebrated and observed as Annakut (meaning a mountain of food). Many different types of food for the bhog are offered to Lord Krishna and the other gods. Devotees take prasad from the “mountain of food.”

Mangal Mandir Jagrati Class Lesson 9 November 18, 2012 – Festival of Lights

There are five days of Diwali that are typically celebrated – , Choti Diwali, Laxmi Poojan, Govardhan Pooja, and . It is a festival of joy and happiness and the victory of good over evil.

There are also many Diwali stories. One is that of Lord Krishna and the lifting of Mount Govardhan. Another is the story of Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile. People lined the streets with lights and diyas to welcome Lord Ram back and celebrate his victory over Ravan, the King of Lanka.

There are many traditions during Diwali. Lights and diyas are lit to signify the driving away of darkness, evil and ignorance as well as the awakening within ourselves. Diwali is a time for family gatherings, food, celebration, and pooja. designs decorate homes and fireworks are lit.

Rangoli Designs: