Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated annually during August or September. The festival marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered and beloved deities in Hinduism. This year, Gokulashtami occurred on September 6th and 7th, and followers across the globe came together to celebrate the occasion with great pomp and grandeur. Again, Amala and I did not know it was happening and someone just came and got us and we went to a festival without dressing up. It was so fun to see the kids dressed up as Krishna and so cute that all of them wanted to become friends with Amala and get their picture taken with her!
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Hindus all over the world. According to the lunar calendar, it is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhadrapada. Devotees celebrate the day by singing devotional songs, performing aarti, and engaging in various rituals to commemorate Lord Krishna’s birth.
One of the most popular customs of Janmashtami is the Dahi Handi ritual. This ritual involves forming a human pyramid and breaking an earthen pot containing curd that is tied to a high pole. This activity emulates Lord Krishna’s playful nature as a child, who would often steal butter and curd from the homes of the villagers. Adults and children were there at the Sri Prakash International school celebrating with unabashed enthusiasm.
Another significant aspect of Janmashtami celebrations is the puja (worship) of Lord Krishna. Devotees decorate their homes, temples, and idols of Lord Krishna with flowers, lights, and rangoli. They offer sweets, fruits, and coconuts to the deity and sing his praises in devotional songs called bhajans. They gave me sweets to eat and I was able to play with the children and it was so fun! Some people observe a fast during the day and break it only at midnight, offering prasad to Lord Krishna.
In addition to India, Janmashtami is celebrated with equal zeal in countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Fiji, where there is a significant Hindu population. In America and the UK, many Hindu communities organize grand celebrations, complete with cultural programs, food stalls, and fireworks.
Krishna Janmashtami is a celebration of love, devotion, and spiritual awakening. It reminds us of Lord Krishna’s teachings, which emphasize the importance of selfless service, non-violence, and compassion. The festival brings people of different backgrounds and cultures together in a spirit of joy and harmony. As we bask in the radiance of the festival, let us also reflect on the qualities that Lord Krishna embodies and aim to imbibe them in our lives. May the festival of Krishna Janmashtami bring light, happiness, and fulfillment to all!
Much Love,
Michelle
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