Govatsa Dwadashi: A Sacred Celebration of Cows
Govatsa Dwadashi, also known as Nandini Vrat, is a Hindu festival that celebrates its significance in Indian culture. This auspicious day falls on the twelfth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Kartik, which typically occurs in October or November. The word “Govatsa” is a combination of two Sanskrit words, “go” meaning cow, and “vatsa” meaning calf.
Govatsa Dwadashi Historical Significance:
The celebration of Govatsa Dwadashi has deep historical roots and is associated with various myths and legends from Hindu scriptures. One of the most prominent tales connected to this festival is the story of King Prithu. According to the Puranas, King Prithu, also known as the first consecrated king, was a righteous and noble ruler crowned after severe drought and famine. He was often referred to as the “Bull King” because of his significant role in establishing agriculture and ensuring the welfare of his subjects. His name, Prithu, is derived from the Sanskrit word “Prithvi,” which means the Earth. His reign marked the beginning of agricultural practices, making him a symbol of fertility, prosperity, and abundance.
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Govatsa Dwadashi Story
When for the first time Lord Shri Krishna went to the forest to graze cows and calves. That day, with a heavy heart, Mother Yashoda adorned Shri Krishna and prepared him for cow Gau Charan (Gocharan). After the puja, Gopal untied the calf. Along with him, Mother Yashoda also sent his elder brother strict instructions that there was no need to go too far to graze the calves. Keep grazing the cows and calves nearby. Not only this, the mother also said that Kanha (Shree Krishna) should not be left alone, because he is still very young. Balram also took full care of Shri Krishna and following the instructions of Mother Yasoda, he returned in the evening with the cows and calves. It is believed that since then Gopalaks celebrate this date of Govatscharan as the festival of Govats Dwadashi.
Govatsa Dwadashi Rituals and Observance:
Govatsa Dwadashi is observed with great devotion by Hindus, particularly in the states of North India, where cows have been traditionally revered as sacred animals. The festival includes various rituals and customs:
Bathing Cows: Devotees wake up early and clean their homes before bathing and decorating cows. They use turmeric, sandalwood paste, and vermilion to adorn the cows, symbolizing their respect and devotion.
Feeding Cows: Feeding cows is an essential part of the celebration. Devotees offer fresh green fodder, jaggery, rice, and other delicious treats to the cows as a mark of gratitude for their role in sustaining human life through milk, dung, and labour.
Cow Puja: In some regions, a formal puja (worship) is conducted in temples dedicated to cows, or at homes, where people offer prayers and seek blessings for the well-being of their families.
Govatsa Dwadashi Puja Muhurat 2023
Vatsa Dwadashi on Thursday, November 9, 2023
Pradoshkala Govatsa Dwadashi Muhurat – 05:31 PM to 08:09 PM
Duration – 02 Hours 38 Mins
Dwadashi Tithi Begins – 10:41 AM on Nov 09, 2023
Dwadashi Tithi Ends – 12:35 PM on Nov 10, 2023
क्षीरोदार्णवसम्भूते सुरासुरनमस्कृते।
सर्वदेवमये मातर्गृहाणार्घ्य नमो नम:॥
Govatsa Dwadashi is a significant festival in the Hindu calendar that honours the sacredness of cows and their role in providing sustenance and prosperity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and protecting all living beings and maintaining the cultural and agricultural heritage of India.
Note: Want to read more about Govatsa Dwadashi in Hindi Visit ✔ गोवत्स द्वादशी
(Disclaimer: This Information has been written based on common belief and material available on the internet. Publicreact.com does not confirm this.)
