Sri Vrindavan Khand (Garg Samhita) -The arrival of Govardhan hill in Mathura

Introduction

Among the countless divine spots in Vraja Bhumi, Govardhan Hill holds a very special place in the hearts of devotees. Known as Haridasa-varya — the best among the servants of Lord Hari — Govardhan is not just a mountain but a conscious devotee of Sri Krishna.

The Garg Saṁhita (Mathura Mandala-khanda) reveals a charming account of how this sacred hill came to rest in Vraja and became the eternal witness of Krishna’s pastimes.

The Sage’s Quest

Long ago, the great sage Pulastya Muni, one of the mind-born sons of Lord Brahma, set out in search of a peaceful place for his penance. Wandering across the earth, he arrived in the western land of Bharata, where his eyes fell upon a magnificent mountain — Govardhan.

Govardhan was no ordinary hill. Its slopes were adorned with flowering creepers, holy ponds, and sacred groves echoing with the songs of birds. The entire mountain glowed with a divine radiance, like a crown jewel of the earth.

Captivated by its beauty, the sage desired to take Govardhan to Kashi (Varanasi) so that he could worship there in divine solitude.

The Condition of Govardhan

Pulastya approached Dronacala, the father of Govardhan, and requested to take his son with him. Dronacala, though saddened, could not deny the request of a revered sage. He said gently,

“O great Muni, if my son himself agrees to go with you, you may take him.”

When Pulastya Muni spoke to Govardhan, the hill bowed respectfully and said,

“O sage, I will come with you, but remember — wherever you place me down, I will remain there forever.”

Pulastya agreed to the condition and, with his mystical power, lifted Govardhan on his palm and began his journey toward Kashi. 

Govardhan Chooses Vraja

As they traveled, they passed through many sacred lands. When they reached the serene region of Mathura Mandala, Govardhan’s heart overflowed with joy — for he recognized this as the divine land where Sri Krishna would one day appear and perform His enchanting pastimes.

Wishing to remain there, Govardhan made the sage halt. When Pulastya stopped to rest, Govardhan immediately grew heavier and settled upon the earth of Vraja, making himself immovable.

Try as he might, the sage could not lift him again. Enraged, Pulastya Muni cursed:

“Since you have deceived me, your size will diminish by one mustard seed every day!”

Govardhan humbly accepted the curse, seeing it as a blessing — for it meant he would forever remain in the land of his beloved Lord.

The Divine Promise Fulfilled

Ages later, Sri Krishna appeared in Vraja and performed countless divine pastimes around Govardhan. When He lifted the sacred hill to protect the Vrajavasis from Indra’s wrath, He revealed the true glory of Govardhan as the dearest servant of the Lord.

Thus, Govardhan’s presence in Mathura Mandala became eternal — a living symbol of pure devotion and loving service to Sri Krishna. 

Spiritual Insight

Govardhan represents the essence of seva-bhava — loving, humble, and steady devotion.

The curse signifies the decline of ego and material pride, paving the way for eternal spiritual love.

To worship or even remember Govardhan Hill is to connect directly with the heart of Sri Krishna’s Vraja-leela.

Conclusion

The story of Govardhan’s arrival is not merely a mythological tale; it is a reminder of the soul’s eternal longing to be near the Divine. Just as Govardhan chose to remain where Krishna's feet would one day tread, may our hearts too remain fixed in the service and remembrance of the Lord.

“Govardhanadharinatha — the Lord who lifted Govardhan — forever resides in the hearts that serve Him with love.”