Krishna Janmastami is a major Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of lord Vishnu. It falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra (August-September). According to Hindu belief, Lord Krishna was born in Mathura over 5,000 years ago to protect the world from evil and restore dharma. His birth story is closely linked to King Kansa, his cruel uncle, who feared that Krishna would be the cause of his downfall.
On this day, devotees observe fasting, sing devotional songs, and decorate temples with flowers and lights. Scenes from Krishna’s life especially his childhood, are enacted in plays known as Rasa Lila or Krishna Lila. In many places, the famous Dahi Handi event is organized, where teams form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd, symbolizing Krishna’s playful and mischievous nature. On this day, people also chant “HARE KRISHNA” and read verses from the Bhagavata Purana. At midnight, the moment believed to be Krishna’s birth time, the idol of baby Krishna is bathed, dressed in new clothes, and placed in a beautifully decorated cradle. To celebrate the birth of Krishna and to connect with the divinities through their children’s innocence
Many families also dress their children in Radha or Krishna’s attire to celebrate the occasion and connect with divinity through children’s innocence and playfulness. Dressing their children’s in Krishna’s attire, a significant Hindu deity, and to embody the innocence and joy association with his childhood. This tradition allows children’s to connect with their cultural heritage and learn about the cultural values represented by Krishna, such love, compassion and righteousness.
Krishna Janmastami is not only a religious occasion but also a reminder of the precious human values that Lord Krishna taught – truth, love, courage, devotion, and joy, spreading the message of righteousness and peace.
With this, I’d like to wish everyone a “HAPPY KRISHNA JANMASTAMI.” and hope you will enjoy this occasion with your loved ones.
Aditi Duwadi
GPHS Grade VIII ‘Eve’