Gopashtami is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the significance of cows and the act of cow herding, which is deeply revered in Hindu culture. Gopashtami is a Hindu festival that falls on Ashtami (eighth day) of Shukla Paksha of Kartik month, which usually falls in October or November in the Gregorian calendar. The rituals are similar to that of Govardhan Puja. On the day of Gopashtami, cows and bulls are worshipped. The festival marks the coming-of-age celebration when Lord Krishna's father, Nanda, gave Krishna the responsibility for taking care of the cows of Vrindavan. Gopashtami 2024 falls on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

The festival of Gopashtami is rooted in the story of Lord Krishna, who, as a child, was known for his playful and loving bond with cows. The festival is particularly popular in North India and areas associated with Lord Krishna, such as Mathura and Vrindavan. November 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates. 

Gopashtami 2024 Tithi and Puja Timings

  • Gopashtami 2024 will be celebrated on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

  • Ashtami tithi begins at 11:56 PM on November 08, 2024, and will end on November 09, 2024.

Gopashtami Significance and Rituals

Gopashtami holds great significance for the Hindu community as it is dedicated to the worship of cows. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Gowardhan hill on his Knishtha (last finger) on Gowardhan Puja day to save the Braj people from the fury of Indra. After seven days of unrelenting flooding of the Braj region, God Indra accepted his defeat on Gopashtami. On this day, go-puja is done on and devotees visit the gaushalas, bathe and clean the cows there and worship them. Also, cows are decorated with cloth and jewellery before offering a special rituals by the devotees.

Special fodders are fed for good health and special drive is organised for its preservation. On this day, Krishna puja and cow Puja is performed for a good and happier life. Devotees also pay special respect to cows for its utilities in daily life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 06, 2024 04:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).