Every year, on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, millions of
devotees across the world gather in anticipation. As midnight nears, temples light up,
bhajans echo in the air, and hearts open in devotion. But Janmashtami is more than the
birth of Lord Krishna. It is a moment of cosmic remembrance. A spiritual invitation to
awaken the divine within.
Krishna was born in a prison cell in Mathura, at a time when the world was steeped in fear
and injustice. His arrival was not just a historical event it was a divine intervention. In the
Bhagavad Gita, Krishna himself says, “Whenever righteousness declines and
unrighteousness rises, I manifest myself.” His birth stands as a reminder that light always
emerges when darkness seems absolute. And that this light is not merely external, but lives
within each of us.
The true essence of Janmashtami is not confined to rituals or celebrations. It is a profound
opportunity to reflect on four key spiritual values Krishna embodied.
First, devotion. Krishna’s life teaches that true bhakti is not in outward display, but in deep,
heartfelt surrender. Second, dharma. His presence is a call to stand for what is right, even
when the path is difficult. Third, wisdom. His teachings in the Gita remain timeless, guiding
us through the dilemmas of modern life. And finally, joy. Krishna reminds us that spirituality
is not just solemn it can be playful, musical, and full of love.
The story of Krishna unfolds across sacred texts such as the Bhagavata Purana and the
Vishnu Purana. His words in the Bhagavad Gita offer a complete spiritual blueprint on
karma, detachment, and the eternal soul. These teachings continue to shape the spiritual
fabric of India and inspire seekers around the world.
Today, Janmashtami is celebrated across continents, from Vrindavan to New York. But the
most important celebration is the one that happens inward. Fast with intention, chant with
sincerity, read the Gita with focus, and serve others with love. In doing so, we connect not
just with Krishna, but with our highest self.
As an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna and a disciple of Swami Sivananda, I Pushpam
Appalanaidu state, Let this Janmashtami be a turning point, not just a tradition, but a
transformation. Not merely a birth to remember, but a divine spark to rediscover within.
