Deepavali in Braj and the days after it
Lamps in the homes and ghats of Braj at Deepavali, followed by Govardhan puja and the custom of a Yamuna bath.
Updated 25 Oct 2026
Deepavali is the festival of lights. In Braj too, rows of lamps burn in homes, temples and on the ghats of the Yamuna. The date changes every year, so check a panchang.
Worship at home
In many families Lakshmi and Ganesha are worshipped on this day. Cleaning the house, drawing rangoli at the door and arranging lamps are common customs.
The next day: Govardhan puja
The day after Deepavali, Braj keeps Govardhan puja and annakut. It remembers how Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan to protect the people of Braj.
A bath in the Yamuna
The following day is Bhai Dooj, or Yam Dwitiya. It is believed that a bath in the Yamuna on this day brings merit, so many people go to Vishram Ghat in Mathura. The ghat is crowded, so take care if you go with elders or children.
Keeping the festival from far away
Those who cannot travel to Braj keep the festival by lighting lamps at home.
