FEAST OF FAITH: THE 56 BHOG STORY

As homes glow after Diwali, kitchens come alive for Annakut — a feast that blends devotion, abundance and gratitude; learn more

- Akshita Prakash and Deep Saxena

The morning after Diwali smells of incense and ghee, not fireworks. As homes trade sparkle for sanctity, devotees prepare for Govardhan Puja, a celebration of faith and food. Rooted in Krishna's legend and the spirit of gratitude, the day sees the Braj region come alive with the grand 56 bhog, an offering of abundance and devotion.

STORY BEHIND THE FEAST

Shailendra Goswami, a 16th-generation priest at Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan, explains, “The Shrimad Bhagwat recounts how young Kanha, at age eight, lifted the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger for seven days to shield villagers from Indra’s wrath. As gratitude, the Brijwasis offered him food, eight meals for seven days, and thus began the tradition of 56 Bhog.”

TEMPLE TRADITIONS