In the Braj region of UP's Mathura district near Vrindavan, rises Govardhan Hill, a low sandstone ridge extending roughly 21 km. Though modest in height, it is among the much revered landscapes in the Krishna tradition. According to the Bhaagavata Puraana, Krishna persuaded the villagers to worship the hill instead of Indra, the rain god. In response, Indra unleashed torrential rains and Krishna lifted the hill to shelter the community. The episode establishes the idea that nature itself is worthy of reverence.
This idea continues in the practice of Govardhan Parikrama, a 21-km circumambulation undertaken by thousands daily - I, too, have undertaken this parikrama during my last visit, during Oct '25, though I must confess that it was in a vehicle. Many walk barefoot, some perform Dandavat Parikrama, progressing through full prostrations. The route passes sacred sites such as Radha Kund, Shyam Kund, Kusum Sarovar and Mansi Ganga, each linked to episodes from Krishna's life. The hill is also central to the Braj Chaurasi Kos Yatra, a wider pilgrimage circuit.
Pilgrimage peaks during Govardhan Puja, where offerings of food symbolise gratitude to the sustaining land. Here, there is no single shrine; the landscape itself is the deity.
Tailpiece.
Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.
Morning cuppa with Lekha.
Walked on the courtyard, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.
Bath followed by breakfast of appams and kadala.
Worked on my laptop.
Lunch, watched an episode of Crime Patrol followed by siesta.
The evening chores.
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