One of the main deities of Hinduism, Lord Vishnu, took on the form of Lord Krishna, whose birth is commemorated on Krishna Janmashtami. Krishna was supposedly born in Mathura, India, more than 5,000 years ago on the eighth day, or Ashtami, of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada. His entrance signaled the end of Kansa and the start of a new period of righteousness.
Krishna Janmashtami, celebrated on the 26th of August this year is marked by elaborate festivities, including fasting, singing devotional songs, and dancing. Temples and homes are decorated, and Raslila (a traditional dance form that depicts Krishna’s life) is performed. The celebration often extends to midnight, believed to be the time of Krishna’s birth, when devotees break their fast and share sweets and other festive foods.
Krishna Janmashtami is a celebration of divine love and the triumph of virtue over evil rather than just a historical remembrance. Texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, which recount the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, highlight the significance of bhakti (devotion), dharma (righteousness), and selfless service. In addition to fasting and singing devotional songs, devotees act out scenes from Krishna’s life while contemplating his divine play, or leela, and asking for his blessings for personal development. Krishna’s teachings promote inner serenity, love, and the awareness of the divine in all aspects of our lives.
I, Pushpam Appalanaidu celebrate Krishna Jayanthi or Janmashtami at my place with satsangs and prayers with prasadam offered to everyone with a lot of love and devotion.