- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:42 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Gopashtami 2024: Celebrated on the eighth day of Kartik's bright fortnight, Gopashtami is a festival honouring cows. Hindus revere cows as 'Gau mata' and worship them with prayers and offerings. This day expresses gratitude for the nourishment and prosperity cows provide. It's similar to Govatsa Dwadashi celebrated in Maharashtra. In cities like Vrindavan and Mathura, devotees celebrate with great fervour. Lord Krishna, often depicted with cows, is also revered. The festival recognises the sacred bond between humans and cows, acknowledging their vital role in rural life. On Gopashtami, people admire and care for cows and calves, reflecting the deep respect Hindu culture has for these gentle creatures. This year, Gopashtami will be observed on 9th November 2024.
Gopashtami 2024: Date And Time
- Gopashtami 2024 Date: 9th November 2024
- Ashtami Tithi Begins: 11:56 PM, 8th November 2024
- Ashtami Tithi Ends: 10:45 PM, 9th November 2024
Gopashtami 2024: Shubh Muhurat
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:43 AM to 12:26 PM
- Amrit Kaal: 12:56 AM, Nov 10 to 02:29 AM, Nov 10
- Sarvartha Siddhi Yog: 06:39 AM to 11:47 AM
Vijaya Muhurat: 01:53 PM to 02:37 PM
Gopashtami celebrates the sacred bond between humans and cows, honouring Lord Krishna and 'Gau mata' with reverence and gratitude. (Image Source: Freepik)
Gopashtami 2024: Significance
In Hinduism, cows hold a revered position as sacred animals, embodying purity and divinity. Hinduism accounts that various deities reside within cows, earning them a special status. Cows are considered embodiments of Goddess Earth, possessing spiritual energy. This deep respect stems from their association with divine powers and life-giving qualities.
Gopashtami celebrates this sacred bond. According to legend, Lord Krishna wanted to herd cows, and his mother Yashoda sought guidance from Saint Shandilya. The sage advised starting on Gopashtami, a day now marked by worship and gratitude to cows. By pleasing cows on this day, Hindus believe they can attain happiness, good fortune, and fulfill their dreams. On Gopashtami, devotees emulate Krishna's innocence and devotion, offering prayers to cows before embarking on new endeavours, reinforcing the animal's significance in Hindu culture and daily life.
Gopashtami 2024: Rituals
To celebrate Gopashtami, begin by rising early, bathing, and dressing in clean clothes. Prepare an altar with flowers, mango leaves, and a beautifully decorated cradle for the baby Krishna idol. Offer garlands, jewellery, and yellow clothing to Lord Krishna. Light an oil or ghee lamp and place a small jar of milk beside the cradle.
Perform a special puja with milk, fruits, and sweets. Recite the Gopala Mantra 108 times using a jaap mala. Share or listen to stories of Krishna's adventures in Gokul and Vrindavan. In the evening, bathe Krishna's idol with panchamrita (five sacred substances), dress him in new clothes, and perform his aarti. Offer bhog with fruits, tulsi leaves, milk, and sweets.
On this day, also perform Gau-Puja by worshipping cows at home or visiting local cowsheds (Goshalas). Clean and bathe the cows and offer them quality fodder, clothes, and ornaments. Sing hymns in their honour. Additionally, consider donating food, clothing, and essentials to underprivileged children, promoting kindness and compassion. By doing so, you'll embody the spirit of Gopashtami, celebrating Lord Krishna and the sacred bond between humans and cows.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)