The Fury of Indra
In the densely populated village of Vrindavan, the people were about to offer their annual gift to Indra, the rain god. Young Krishna resented the tradition despite being much older than his age. He requested the villagers to offer their gifts to Govardhan Hill, the benefactor of their prosperity and protector, rather than Indra. Villagers obeyed, making offerings and gifts to the sacred hill instead of Indra. This transformation in worship leads us to the day Krishna lifted Govardhan for the first time.
Indra, upon seeing that his worship was forsaken, was hurt in his ego. Angered, he called upon dark clouds and let loose a gigantic storm to chastise the villagers. Thunder rolled from the sky, lightning illuminated, and torrential rains cascaded over Vrindavan.
Krishna’s Divine Protection
When the villagers became frightened, they approached Krishna for assistance. Lifting Govardhan Hill in his small left-hand finger effortlessly, Krishna did so serenely with a smile. It turned out to be a huge umbrella, protecting people, animals, and homes from Indra’s rage.
The villagers took shelter at the foot of the hill, dry and safe. Krishna stood firm, supporting the hill for seven days and nights. All along, he comforted the people and played happily with the children as if carrying no burden at all.
Indra Realizes His Mistake
After seven days of continuous rain, with no indication of defeat, Indra began to appreciate the fact. He was wonder-struck at the beauty and majesty of Krishna, no ordinary boy but Himself the Supreme Divinity. Indra was reprimanded and took away the storm and descended to beg pardon.
Krishna forgave him lovingly, a lesson taught that one should never boast before righteousness and piety. The villagers welcomed him warmly in song and dance with great sense of gratitude and admiration.
A Symbol of Devotion and Bravery
The day that Krishna raised Govardhan was commemorated as a symbol of protection, humility, and devotion. Even today, Hindus rejoice Govardhan Puja to commemorate this. It is a reminder of the truth that true divinity is in love and selfless protection and not in fear and punishment.
This story informs us that nature, like Govardhan, must be revered, and through unshakeable faith, the most tempestuous storms are possible to overcome. The story of how Krishna lifted Govardhan is chiseled in the hearts of devotees as an eternal reminder of faith, humility, and God’s grace.
Its heritage still inspires people everywhere in the world. With faith, action, and with love, indeed, mountains can be moved—or mountains can be created.