Govatsa Dwadashi 2025 | Date, Time, Rituals, Significance, and Celebrations in London, UK

Govatsa Dwadashi, a significant Hindu festival, will be celebrated on Friday, October 17, 2025, in London, United Kingdom. This day marks the worship of cows and calves, symbolizing fertility, prosperity, and divine blessings. It is a vital part of the celebrations leading up to Diwali and is primarily observed in Maharashtra, where it is also known as Vasu Baras.

What is Govatsa Dwadashi?

Govatsa Dwadashi, celebrated on the second day of the five-day Diwali festival, focuses on honoring cows, which are revered as sacred animals in Hinduism. On this day, cows and calves are bathed, decorated, and offered food, particularly wheat-based products. This tradition is rooted in the belief that the divine cow Nandini—a symbol of wealth and prosperity—brings blessings to those who worship and care for it. For details on Diwali 2025 celebrations, including Govatsa Dwadashi, check out our comprehensive guide on Diwali 2025 date, time, and celebrations in the UK.

Govatsa Dwadashi is also celebrated as Nandini Vrat, a fasting ritual that involves abstaining from eating wheat and milk-based products for the day. The fasting is believed to purify the soul and bring good fortune.

Significance of Govatsa Dwadashi in Hindu Tradition

Govatsa Dwadashi holds particular significance in the state of Maharashtra, where it is referred to as Vasu Baras. It is the first day of the grand Diwali celebrations, marking the beginning of the festival that culminates with Diwali. On this day, people offer prayers to cows and calves, offering them treats such as wheat-based sweets and other food items as a gesture of respect and gratitude. The act of fasting and worship on this day is believed to cleanse the devotees' minds and spirits, preparing them for the upcoming Diwali festivities. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and respecting animals, particularly cows, which hold a special place in Hinduism.

Govatsa Dwadashi 2025: Timing and Muhurat in London

In 2025, Govatsa Dwadashi falls on Friday, October 17. Here are the key timings for the day:

The Pradoshkala Muhurat for the Govatsa Dwadashi Puja will take place from 18:03 to 20:44, lasting for 2 hours and 41 minutes. This is considered the most auspicious time for worshiping cows and calves.

How to Observe Govatsa Dwadashi in London, UK

Though Govatsa Dwadashi is more widely celebrated in India, especially in Maharashtra, Hindus in London and across the UK observe the festival in their homes and temples. Here's how you can participate in the celebration:

- Worship Cows and Calves: While it's not always possible to worship live cows in urban areas, many devotees place images or idols of cows and calves in their homes and offer prayers.

- Offer Wheat Products: You can prepare traditional wheat-based sweets and offer them to cows (or symbolic representations of cows) as part of the worship.

- Fasting: Observing a fast from wheat and dairy products is a common practice. The fast is usually broken after the puja is performed.

- Charity: Donating to those in need, particularly for animals, aligns with the spirit of this festival and is a way to extend the blessings of prosperity.

Govatsa Dwadashi and its Connection to Diwali

Govatsa Dwadashi is the beginning of the Diwali festival, and it sets the tone for the joyous celebrations that follow. It is a day of gratitude, respect for animals, and spiritual purification. For many, the festival marks a time to clean and decorate homes, purchase new items, and prepare for the more well-known Diwali day, which is devoted to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

Conclusion

In London, Govatsa Dwadashi will be celebrated on October 17, 2025, with a focus on worshiping cows, observing a fast, and preparing for Diwali. This day is not just a ritual but a celebration of nature's abundance, a call for respect towards animals, and a reminder of the spiritual significance of family, wealth, and health. Whether you’re in Maharashtra or London, the essence of Govatsa Dwadashi remains the same: a day to honor divine creatures and set the stage for a prosperous and joyous Diwali season.