When Is It Celebrated?
Govatsa Dwadashi is
observed on the Dwadashi Tithi (12th day) of the Krishna Paksha
in the Ashwin month of the Hindu calendar.
In 2025, it falls on Friday, October 17, one day before Dhanteras,
marking the beginning of Diwali festivities in many regions.
Significance
- Known as Nandini Vrat, this
festival honors Nandini, the divine cow mentioned in the Bhavishya
Purana.
- Cows are revered as symbols of
motherhood, nourishment, and purity in Hinduism.
- Worshipping cows on this day is
believed to bring abundance, health, and fulfillment of wishes.
- Women observe a vrat for the well-being
and long life of their children.
- In Northern India, it is also
called Vagh Baras, symbolizing repayment of financial debts—businessmen
clear ledgers and pause new transactions.
- In Maharashtra, it is
celebrated as Vasu Baras, the first day of Deepavali.
- In Andhra Pradesh, the Sripada
Vallabha Aradhana Utsav is held at Pithapuram Datta Mahasamsthan.
Rituals & Traditions
- Cow Worship:
- Cows and calves are bathed,
decorated with turmeric, kumkum, and flower garlands.
- If cows are unavailable, mud
idols are made and worshipped.
- Aarti
is performed in the evening.
- Offerings:
- Devotees offer gram, sprouted
moong, and green fodder to cows.
- These offerings symbolize gratitude
to Nandini.
- Fasting & Observances:
- Women observe a strict fast,
taking only one meal after puja.
- Sleeping on the floor is
recommended; milk, curd, and ghee are avoided.
- Devotees chant Sri Krishna bhajans, recognizing His love for cows.
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