Krishna Janmashtami: Welcoming the Divine Child
Krishna Janmashtami, a joyous festival celebrated nationwide, marks the divine birth of Lord Krishna, the 8th reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, according to Hindu mythology. This year, per the Drik Panchang, the festivities will span two consecutive days, starting at 15:37 on September 6 and concluding at 16:14 on September 7.
Mathura and Vrindavan: A Special Connection
Mathura and Vrindavan hold a special place in Janmashtami celebrations as they are intimately linked to Lord Krishna’s birth and childhood. The temples in these towns come alive with vibrant decorations of flowers, lights, and colorful fabrics.
10 Days of Devotion
In Mathura, the Janmashtami celebrations kick off ten days in advance. Devotees engage in various religious programs, including Rasleelas (divine plays), Bhajans (devotional songs), and Kirtans (musical hymns). Rasleela, a daily ritual, is performed at dawn and dusk.
Midnight Vigil
On the eve of Janmashtami, devotees flock to Krishna’s temples, particularly the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan and the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura. They offer prayers, chant mantras, sing bhajans, and perform aarti to welcome Lord Krishna. Devotees observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight, symbolizing Lord Krishna’s birth.
The Sacred Abhishek
At midnight, devotees believe that Lord Krishna is born and perform a special ceremony known as ‘abhishek.’ During this ritual, they bathe the idol of baby Krishna (laddu gopal) with a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and water. The Abhishek ceremony is accompanied by the resonating sound of conch shells, the melodious ringing of bells, and the chanting of Vedic mantras. Devotees then offer Lord Krishna a plate containing 56 delectable dishes known as ‘Chappan Bhog’ as an expression of devotion and love.
The Joyous Dahi Handi Ritual
People in Mathura celebrate the ‘Dahi Handi’ ritual with great enthusiasm on the morning after Janmashtami by suspending a pot filled with curd at a height. Participants form human pyramids to reach the pot’s summit. Once the pot is reached, it is broken, and the celebration commences, including a festive feast.
Krishna Janmashtami is a time for devotees to come together, express their love for Lord Krishna, and rejoice in the divine energy that permeates this auspicious occasion.
