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Govatsa Dwadashi (Vasu Baras)

Kamadhenu / Cow and Calf (Nandini)

Hindu

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Govatsa Dwadashi / Vasu Baras — Kartik Krishna Dwadashi — the day before Dhanteras, kicking off the Diwali sequence. The cow and her calf (Vatsa) are bathed, decorated with garlands and tilak, fed sweet grain, and worshipped. Mothers fast for the wellbeing of their children. Wheat and cow's milk products are scrupulously avoided — instead offered entirely to the calves.

Dates 2026–2027

November 5, 2026

Mantra

ॐ कामधेनवे नमः

Om Kamadhenave Namah

Salutations to Kamadhenu, the Wish-Fulfilling Cow

✦ Special Note

Especially observed in Maharashtra and Gujarat. The day formally begins the Diwali Panchak (5-day sequence: Govatsa, Dhanteras, Narak Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja).

Foods Allowed

Foods without wheat and cow milk products todayMoong dal, jowar, bajra rotisVegetables (no wheat)Buttermilk-free meals

Foods to Avoid

Wheat and wheat products (avoided strictly)Cow milk and ghee (donated to calves instead)Onion and garlicMeat

Meal Idea

Bajra/jowar bhakri with vegetable curry — wheat-free, cow-dairy-free in honour of the cow and her calf

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Get a reminder before the next Govatsa Dwadashi (Vasu Baras)

At 7pm the evening before, each time it comes around. Turn it off anytime.

Remind me

Dates shown for India (default). Enable JavaScript to set a reminder for your location.

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