Do Cows Really Prefer Living Among Humans? MP CM on Govardhan Puja

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cows have a unique bond with humans and cannot survive alone in the wild.
- The Govardhan festival is celebrated to honor Lord Krishna.
- Madhya Pradesh is actively promoting cow rearing in homes and Gaushalas.
- Unique regional rituals enhance the cultural significance of the festival.
- The state government is working to revive traditional practices.
Indore, Oct 22 (NationPress) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated on Wednesday that cows are distinct from other animals as they inherently prefer cohabiting with humans, and they are unable to thrive in forests if left alone.
Mohan Yadav conveyed this message during a ceremony held for Govardhan Puja at the Resham Kendra Gaushala in Indore.
Madhya Pradesh is marking the celebration of Govardhan Puja following Diwali with great enthusiasm and unique traditions.
"On several occasions, we mention the establishment of Gay Abhyaran. However, Cow Abhyaran cannot be equated with tiger reserves. This terminology is misleading since cows are revered in human life as mothers. If abandoned in the wild, a cow will perish — it cannot endure alone in nature. This reflects the divine essence orchestrated by God. In today’s evolving landscape, our visionary Prime Minister has taken steps to rejuvenate this practice," Yadav remarked.
While speaking at the event, the Chief Minister noted that a few years ago, Indore’s Resham Kendra Gaushala housed approximately 600 cows, and that number has now surged to 2500.
Yadav emphasized that the state government is advocating for cow rearing, not only in Gaushalas but also within households.
The Govardhan festival is commemorated a day after Diwali to honor Lord Krishna. It signifies the day when Krishna lifted the mountain to safeguard the inhabitants of Vrindavan from torrential rains.
This festival represents gratitude towards nature, reverence for cows, and the essence of humility and faith. Worshippers honor cows, present food to Lord Krishna, and seek blessings for prosperity and wellness.
In Madhya Pradesh, the festival is observed diversely across regions. For instance, in Ujjain’s Badnawar, villagers were seen lying on the ground as cows trotted over them.
This age-old ritual, known as Gauri Pujan, involves bathing, adorning, and worshipping the cows. In Harda district, villagers guided their cattle over a small fire lit at the entrance of their homes, believing this ritual protects the animals from ailments throughout the year.