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Krishna Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India. This year, the festival falls on August 26, 2024, and the celebrations are in full swing in cities like Mathura, Vrindavan, and Dwarka. Devotees observe a fast, engage in musical and dance performances, participate in elaborate rituals, and offer delicious food to Lord Krishna.
The festivities in Mathura, considered the birthplace of Lord Krishna, are particularly grand. The ISKCON temple in Mathura will host a special puja starting at midnight between 12:01 AM and 12:45 AM on August 26. The puja will involve bathing the idol of Lord Krishna, offering bhog (food), and performing aarti. The celebrations will culminate with the Dahi Handi festival on August 27, a tradition where people form human pyramids to break an earthen pot filled with milk, butter, and curd, symbolizing Lord Krishna's childhood pranks.
The origins of Janmashtami are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, was born to Vasudev and Devaki. However, his maternal uncle, the tyrant Kansa, fearing a prophecy that Devaki's child would end his reign, imprisoned the couple. Despite Kansa's efforts, Lord Krishna was born in prison, and Vasudev miraculously transported him to Gokul, where he was raised by Nanda and Yashoda. This divine escape forms the core narrative of Krishna Janmashtami celebrations.
The festival is observed through various rituals across the country. In Mumbai, the Dahi Handi tradition is a major highlight, while other regions have their unique customs. Temples are adorned with vibrant decorations, homes are festooned with lights, and streets are adorned with colorful tableaux depicting scenes from Lord Krishna's life. Processions carrying these tableaux add a vibrant and joyous aspect to the celebrations.
The essence of Krishna Janmashtami lies in commemorating Lord Krishna's birth, remembering his teachings of love, compassion, and righteousness, and celebrating his divine attributes. The festival serves as a reminder of the victory of good over evil and the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The celebrations not only bring joy and merriment but also instill a deep sense of spirituality and devotion among devotees.
Source: Krishna Janmashtami 2024: When and where to watch Mathura’s ISKCON temple celebrations