What is Chappan Bhoga,
It refers to a holy thali of sattvic foods served to Lord Krishna on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami. It often includes dishes that offer all 5 tastes—sweet, sour, spicy, salty, bitter, and umami.
Also Read: 10 traditional blogs offered to Lord Krishna
What all is included in Chappan Bhog?
As per experts, Chappan Bhog features 56 delectable Prasadam items, that are loved by Lord Krishna. From pure milk products, to savory dishes, it has everything. It includes sattvic dishes like Makhan Mishri, Kheer, Rasgulla, Jeera Laddus, Jalebi, Rabdi, Malpua, Mohanbhog, Moong Dal Halwa, Ghevar, Peda, Cashews, Almonds, Pistachios, Cardamoms, Panchamrit, Shakkar Para, Mathri, Chutney, Murabba, Mango, Banana, Grapes, Apples, Plums, Raisins, Pakoras, Saag, Curd, Rice, Kadhi, Cheela, Papad, Khichdi, Eggplant Vegetable, Milk Vegetable, Poori, Tikki, Daliya, Ghee, Honey, White Butter, Fresh Cream, Kachori, Roti, Coconut Water, Almond Milk, Chaach, Shikanji, Chana, Meethe Chawal, Bhujia, Supari, Saunf, and Paan.
The story associated with Chappan Bhog
Historians recount that when the people of Braj were preparing a grand event to honor Indra, the king of heaven, young Krishna asked Nand Baba why this ritual was being conducted. Nand Baba explained that the puja was meant to please Dev Raj Indra, who would then provide abundant rain. Krishna, however, questioned why they should worship Indra for rain, suggesting instead that they should worship the Govardhan Mountain, which provides fruits, vegetables, and fodder for animals.
Indra perceived this as an affront and unleashed a devastating storm upon Braj, causing severe flooding. In response, Krishna instructed the people to seek refuge under the Govardhan Mountain, which he lifted effortlessly with his left hand. He asked everyone to take shelter and support themselves with sticks to stay safe from the storm.
For seven days, Krishna held up the mountain without consuming any food. On the eighth day, when the rain stopped and the people emerged, they realized Krishna had not eaten during this time. Curious, they inquired with Maa Yashoda about how she fed Krishna, and she revealed that she fed him eight times a day. Consequently, the residents of Gokul prepared fifty-six types of dishes—eight varieties for each meal—to honor Krishna, leading to the tradition of Chappan Bhog. It is believed that offering these fifty-six dishes to Lord Krishna on Janmashtami brings joy to him and fulfills one’s wishes.
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