Krishna Janmashtami
Celebrating the joyful birth of Lord Krishna in Mathura to vanquish evil and bestow divine love and Bhagavad Gita wisdom.
Krishna Janmashtami
Mythological Story
Janmashtami marks the advent of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, born in a prison in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva at midnight during the dark fortnight of Bhadrapada month. Born in the midst of tyranny caused by King Kamsa, baby Krishna was miraculously transported across the raging Yamuna river to Gokul by Vasudeva, where he grew up as the beloved foster son of Yashoda and Nanda.
Spiritual Significance
Krishna Janmashtami embodies joy, unconditional love (Bhakti), and supreme spiritual philosophy as revealed in the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna teaches us how to live in the world without being attached to fruits of action (Nishkama Karma) and to surrender all actions to the Supreme Divine.
Puja Vidhi & Celebration
Devotees decorate temples and home shrines with elaborate Jhula (swings) for Laddu Gopal. Midnight puja is celebrated with conch blowing, chanting of Hare Krishna Mahamantra, abhishekam of the divine idol, offering Makhan Mishri (butter and sugar candy), and organizing grand Dahi Handi competitions the next day.