Prayers mark Govardhan puja

Tribune News Service

Haridwar, October 31

Gobardhan puja and Annkut Mahotsava were performed by devotees with gaiety here today.

As part of Govardhan puja, Lord Krishna was offered 56 varieties of food and devotees prayed for the well-being of their families and society.

At Bharat Mata Temple, Bhoopatwala Bharat Mata Mandir founder Swami Satyamitranand Giri asked people to pray that everyone got food and shelter.

Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdeshanand Giri Maharaj said the Annakut celebrations related to environment conservation and in current scenario when global warming was making severe impact, the festival held major significance.

District Magistrate Harbans Singh Chugh also paid obeisance at the Bharat Mata Temple with his wife and sought blessings from Swami Satyamitranand Giri.

DM Chugh said Bharat Mata Temple was a symbol of unity and the celebrations of the Govardhan-Annakut festival at this temple was a unique experience.

At the ancient shrine of Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir, Chandighat, Radhe Krishan Mandir, Shri Ram Mandir along with other temples, Annakut Mahotsava was celebrated with gaiety.

At Swami Narayan Ashram, devotees, mostly hailing from Gujarat, celebrated Annakut Mahotsava.

Swami Anand Swarup Shastri wished devotees Gujarati New Year, which started today.

The seer said Lord Krishna gave the message of environment conservation through Annakut to not only people of Gokul but also to the whole world.

He added that five elements water, air, earth, sky and fire were the basis of life so they need to conserve and preserve them. At Bhoopatwala Shri Ram temple, Mahant Ram Das led the Annakut mahotsava rituals.