Janmashtami holds a great significance in Hindu culture as it marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna and is celebrated by Krishna devotees across the world. Devotees prepare 56 food items to offer to Lord Krishna which includes several beverages, cereals, fruits, dry fruits and sweets which are commonly known as Chappan Bhog. The effort and love put in by devotees in preparing these 56 items shows their immense devotion towards Lord Krishna.
What is Chhappan Bhog?
Chappan Bhog is a sacred platter of satvik foods offered to Lord Krishna during Janmashtami. This unique assortment includes all the five tastes – sweet, sour, spicy, salty and bitter – as well as umami, creating a balanced and divine feast.
Importance of Chhappan Bhog in Janmashtami
It is said that one day Lord Indra started raining incessantly in Lord Krishna’s native village Gokul out of anger, causing floods and destruction. To protect the people, Lord Krishna lifted the entire Govardhan mountain on the tip of his little finger and provided shelter to everyone.
People believe that he held the mountain for 7 days which was indeed a miracle that is remembered even today. Finally Lord Indra gave up his ego at the feet of Lord Krishna and life returned to normal in Gokul. Since Krishna had given up his 8 daily meals for 7 days, the villagers, out of gratitude and love, promised to offer him a feast of 56 items. Since then, 56 food items have become the go-to food to please the gods for ages.
The 56 food items included in Chappan Bhog are listed below
Sweet
Butter sugar candy, kheer, rasgulla, jalebi, rabri, malpua, mohanbhog, moong dal pudding, ghevar, peda, cumin laddu, panchamrit, shakkarpara, honey, sweet rice
Dried Fruits
Cashew, almond, pistachio, cardamom, betel nut, fennel, betel leaf
charming
Mathri, chutney, jam, dumplings, greens, curd, rice, lentils, curry, chilla, papad, khichdi, brinjal, gourd, puri, tikki, porridge, ghee, butter, cream, kachori, roti, gram, bhujia
Fruit
Mango, Banana, Grape, Apple, Plum, Raisin
Drinks
Coconut water, almond milk, buttermilk, shikanji
