The day following Diwali brings Annakoot, a festival centred on offering an enormous, mountain-like display of food to Krishna. Understanding this celebration helps pilgrims appreciate one of the most visually striking naivedya traditions found at temples during this particular time of year.
What Is Annakoot?
Annakoot, meaning 'mountain of food', refers to a festival in which an enormous variety and quantity of dishes are prepared and arranged as an offering to Krishna, typically celebrated the day after Diwali. Local authorities in towns hosting celebrations connected to Annakoot typically issue advance guidance for pilgrims regarding crowd management and safety.
The Legend Behind Annakoot
This festival is traditionally connected to a story involving Krishna encouraging villagers to worship Govardhan Hill rather than the rain god Indra, with the elaborate food offering symbolising gratitude for the hill's protection and abundance. Many pilgrims specifically plan their travel calendar around attending Annakoot, treating the occasion as a highlight of their broader pilgrimage activity.
Annakoot at Krishna Temples
Pilgrims visiting Krishna temples, particularly in regions such as Braj associated with his life, during Annakoot witness an especially elaborate naivedya display, with a portion later distributed to devotees as a particularly significant prasad. Community volunteers play a significant role in organising the logistics behind Annakoot, often working for weeks beforehand to prepare.
