Karnataka government directs temples to hold ‘Gau Pooja’ during Deepavali

A similar circular was issued in 2021 when the BJP was in power.

The Muzrai Department has issued a circular directing the temples operating under its ambit to conduct Gau Pooja (cow worship) on the occasion of Balipadyami during Deepavali festivities in Karnataka. The circular was issued on February 13. 

The circular states: “In the Hindu religion, cow is perceived as Gau Mata (mother) and revered. The Hindus worship the animal giving it a special status. It is important to spread awareness about the religious and cultural significance attached to the cow. On the day of Balipadyami, the temples should bathe cows, adorn them with flowers, arashina-kunkuma (turmeric and kumkuma) and offer jaggery, rice and fruits as Gograsa. The pooja should be offered to the cattle in the evening.” 

A similar circular was issued in 2021 when the BJP was in power.

Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy said that there was nothing wrong or out of the ordinary in the circular. “The pooja was conducted in the past too. Why should we change that practice? Let it continue.”

The latest circular also directed the temples to celebrate Varamahalakshmi festival by giving green bangles and arashina-kumkuma to women devotees. The circular temples to offer rudrabhisheka/homa in connection with Shiva ratri festivities, and organise religious and cultural events.

K. Neela, social activist, questioned the need for a special circular on Gau Pooja. “When the BJP was in power, the government had issued many such orders. Ironically, the Congress’ actions contradicts its claim of being secular, scientific, and pro-constitution,” she said.