Lord Krishna was born in Vrindavan and grew up as a cowherd. Usually, he grazes the cows and was always seen in the company of cows. Therefore, He is also known as Gopala and Govinda which means the protector of cows. Though a cow appears like an animal she gives milk like a mother. While our own mother gives milk only for a short period of our life but Gau Mata gives milk throughout our life. Therefore, she has been given the status of Mata along with Janaka Mata (own mother), Bhumaatha (mother earth) and Sreemata (Jagan Mata- Paraasakthi). Basically, Gau Mata is the temple where all the Gods, Devatas and holy tanks reside. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides in the rear side (prishta baagam) of Cows and it is one of the 5 places where Goddess Laxmi resides.
Importance of “GAU Mata” (Cow)
Aayudhaanaamaham vajram dhenoonaamasmi kaamadhuk;
Prajanashchaasmi kandarpah sarpaanaamasmi vaasukih
Among weapons I am the thunderbolt;
among cows I am the wish-fulfilling cow called Surabhi;
I am the progenitor, the god of love;
among serpents I am Vasuki.
~ "Shloka 28" -Chapter 10 - The Yoga of the Divine Glories
Mantra: Sarva Kaama-dudhe Devi Sarva Teerthee-bhishechini |
Paavane Surabhi Shreshthe Devi Tubhyam Namostute ||
मंत्र: सर्व काम-दुधे देवी सर्व तीर्थ-भिषेचिनी |
पावने सुरभि श्रेष्ठे देवी तुभ्यं नमोस्तुते ||
As per Vedic scriptures, Gau Puja and Seva are considered very meritorious in Kali Yuga. According to Lord Krishna caring for a cow is equivalent to worshipping Him. In Vedic scriptures, Gau or Cow are awarded with a very holy and special status which is of a mother and therefore they are called Gau-Mata. People believed that Demi-Gods reside in the cow and serving the cow is a pious thing. Hence the rituals such as Gau-puja, Gau-Seva and Gau-Daan are highly recommended in various Vedic scriptures.
It is a duty of every devotee or the people who follow Dharma to protect and serve the cow. According to scriptures by performing Cow Worship one can burn all the negative karma of the present and the past lives and get blessed with spiritual elevation and materialistic prosperity.
Lord Krishna and Cows
Benefits of Gau Puja and Seva
- One who performs Gau Puja and Seva get the divine blessings of Lord Krishna.
- This ritual help for getting rid of Sins and removing all negative Karma.
- Gau Mata is the symbol of wealth, strength and abundance.
- It brings good fortune to those who perform Gau Puja and Seva.
- She represents the earth and most Hindus respect and worship cows for their gentle nature.
Spiritual Benefits of Gau Puja and Seva
- Grant Moksha / Mukti Or Salvation.
- Give liberation and devotional service.
- Removal of dark energies and obstacles.
- This is beneficial for spiritual augmentation and enhanced perception.
- For victory over enemies and overall protection.
Health Benefits of Gau Puja and Seva
Worshipping a Cow helps in clearing our debts and attain forgiveness. It is believed that the blessing of Gau Mata helps in attaining Moksha after death. Boosts immunity & bestows longevity. Frees devotee from illusion, attachment, and suffering. It also gives concentration & peace of mind.