Annakut is observed mainly in Gujarat and Rajasthan after Diwali and on this day huge food offerings are made to Sri Krishna. Annakut is also observed as the New Year’s Day in Gujarat and is of great importance to many Hindu communities . Annakut 2024 date is November 2. The reason for observing the ritual is associated with Sri Krishna.
How Is Annakut Observed?
The name Annakut is derived from the huge amount of food offerings on the day made to Sri Krishna. It used to take the form of a mountain. Thus the day also got the name – Annakut – 'Anna' meaning food and 'kut', mountain.
Offering sumptuous food to the favorite deity is the most important ritual on the day. People also wish each other for a peaceful and happy year. Gujarati Vikram New Year is also observed on the day.
It is said that Veda Vyas once revealed to Yudhishtira that one who remains peaceful and happy on Kartik Shud 1 (first day of Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon) will experience the same throughout the year.
The day is also observed as Bali Padyami and Govardhan Puja.
Today the festival is observed in important Sri Krishna Temples in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Vrindavan.