Nepal

Govardhan Pooja, Mha Pooja being observed today

Govardhan Pooja, Mha Pooja being observed today

By THT Online

A devotee feeds a cow after performing worship rituals on it during Tihar festival celebrations in Kathmandu, Nepal, Thursday, October 19, 2017. Photo: AP

KATHMANDU: Govardhan Pooja is being marked by Hindus throughout the country on the fourth day of Tihar festival, today. Govardhan Pooja is observed today by making small hillock out of cow dung representing the Govardhan Parvat (mountain). This ritual is linked to the Hindu God, Lord Krishna, who according to the legend lifted the mountain with his little finger and protected the people of Gokul from torrential rains caused by Indra, the God of Rain.

Likewise, people prepare a mixture of cow dung and ochre formed into a paste and apply the same on their courtyards and floors to purify their homes.

Similarly, ox is also worshipped today as the animal provides vital support in different agricultural works in Nepal which is predominantly an agricultural country. Likewise, Mha Pooja -- worship of oneself -- is also celebrated today by the Newar community across the country. Mha Pooja falls on the Newari New Year based on the Newari calendar, Nepal Sambat.