Shree Krishna janmashtami

Shree Krishna Janmashtami

Shree Krishna Janmashtami is one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Krishna was born on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra (August–September), about 5,200 years ago in Mathura, India.

Significance

Lord Krishna is worshipped as the symbol of love, wisdom, courage, and dharma. His teachings in the Bhagavad Gita guide people towards righteousness and devotion. The festival reminds devotees of the victory of good over evil, as Krishna was born to end the tyranny of King Kansa.

Celebrations

Fasting & Prayer: Devotees keep fasts, chant bhajans, and read scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana.

Midnight Celebrations: Since Krishna was born at midnight, temples and homes are beautifully decorated, and his idol is placed in a cradle, symbolizing his divine birth.

Jhanki & Raas Leela: Dramatic plays (Raas Leela) and tableaus (Jhanki) are performed to depict scenes from Krishna’s childhood.

Dahi Handi: In India and Nepal, young men form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd, butter, or milk, symbolizing Krishna’s playful nature of stealing butter.

Observance in Nepal

In Nepal, Janmashtami is celebrated with great devotion. Temples, especially Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square, become major pilgrimage sites. Thousands of devotees gather, offer prayers, light lamps, and sing devotional songs throughout the night.

Spiritual Message

Janmashtami teaches people the values of faith, devotion, and dharma. It reminds us to rise above ego and selfishness, and to live a life guided by truth, compassion, and righteousness, as Lord Krishna did.