I. Introduction to Govardhan Parikrama
A. Definition
The Govardhan Parikrama is a religious pilgrimage that involves circumambulating the Govardhan Hill, located in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This parikrama is one of the most significant pilgrimages for Hindus and is believed to have great spiritual significance.
B. Significance in Hinduism
Govardhan Parikrama holds immense significance in Hinduism and is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and salvation to those who undertake it. This parikrama is considered as a symbol of devotion, faith, and surrender to God. It is believed that by performing Govardhan Parikrama, one can attain the blessings of Lord Krishna and seek forgiveness for their sins.
C. Historical and mythological significance According to Hindu mythology,
Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the people of the village of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra. This act of Lord Krishna is believed to have established the Govardhan Hill as a symbol of his divine power and protection. Since then, the Govardhan Parikrama has been an integral part of Hindu tradition.
II. Religious Beliefs and Practices
A. Importance of Govardhan Parikrama in Hinduism
Govardhan Parikrama is believed to be an act of devotion to Lord Krishna and is considered a significant step towards attaining moksha or salvation. It is believed that those who undertake the parikrama with a pure heart and devotion are blessed with good fortune, prosperity, and inner peace.
B. Rituals and practices followed during the parikrama
During the Govardhan Parikrama, devotees circumambulate the Govardhan Hill and offer prayers at various temples and holy places along the way. The parikrama is usually performed in a clockwise direction and is completed within a day. Devotees also perform various rituals and offer donations to the poor and needy.
C. Legends associated with the parikrama
Several legends are associated with the Govardhan Parikrama, including the story of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill and the legend of King Bali, who was granted a boon by Lord Vishnu to visit the Govardhan Hill once a year.
III. Govardhan Hill
A. Description of Govardhan Hill
The Govardhan Hill is located in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, and is approximately 80 feet high and 38 km in circumference. The hill is considered to be a sacred site for Hindus and is believed to be the embodiment of Lord Krishna’s divine power.
B. Historical and mythological significance of Govardhan Hill
The Govardhan Hill holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is believed to be the site where Lord Krishna performed various miracles, including lifting the hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from Lord Indra’s wrath.
C. Importance of Govardhan Hill in Hinduism
The Govardhan Hill is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in Hinduism and is believed to hold immense spiritual power. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
IV. Govardhan Parikrama Route
A. Overview of the parikrama route
The Govardhan Parikrama route is approximately 21 km long and covers several important places, including the Kusum Sarovar, Radha Kund, and Mansi Ganga. The parikrama is usually completed within a day and is performed in a clockwise direction.
B. Description of important places on the route
The Kusum Sarovar is a sacred lake located on the Govardhan Parikrama route and is believed to be the site where Lord
