Minister Govind Singh Rajput sings Diwari songs, dances with Moniyas at Jaisinagar Govardhan Toriya fair

Govardhan Puja was held at Govardhan Toriya in Jaisinagar, Sagar district, on the occasion of Deepavali. A fair was also held alongside the puja, drawing Moniyas from across the district. Cabinet minister Govind Singh Rajput also attended the fair.

The minister was seen in Bundeli style at the fair. He sang folk songs of Bundelkhand's well-known Diwari tradition and danced with the Moniyas. He sang the Diwari song "Worship the cows, adorn the buffaloes, and touch the hooves of the bullocks, brother, they are the providers of this earth", and matched steps with the Moniyas.

He also spoke about the religious, social and environmental significance of Govardhan Puja. He said Govardhan Puja is a tradition of "our Sanatan culture" that makes people realise the importance of nature, the environment, cattle and farming. According to him, Lord Krishna gave the message of gratitude towards nature, and of protecting it, through the worship of Govardhan mountain.

The minister said the need to protect the environment, save water, practise organic farming and conserve natural resources is felt more than ever today, which is why the message of Govardhan Puja matters even more. He said the festival also highlights the importance of farmers, livestock keepers and an economy that rests on agriculture.

Rajput said the Diwari tradition of Bundelkhand is a priceless part of the state's cultural heritage. Diwari songs reflect respect for cattle, bullocks and livestock. He said farmers and livestock keepers are the strong foundation of society's economy, and traditional songs and dance carry these values forward from generation to generation.

The minister also shopped from local shopkeepers at the fair. Giving people the message of "vocal for local", he said fairs bring employment and earning opportunities for small shopkeepers, artisans, handicraft workers and village traders. He said that when we buy from local shopkeepers, we do not buy just one item, but also help strengthen the livelihood of a small trader's family.