Janmashtami 2023: Also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated globally to honor Lord Krishna’s birth, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as per the Hindu calendar. This year, Janmashtami spans two consecutive days according to the Drik Panchang. Devotees gather at Krishna temples at midnight to offer prayers, with temples adorned in beautiful garlands and vibrant lights. While the festival is celebrated worldwide, Mathura and Vrindavan hold a distinct significance, as these places are deeply connected to Lord Krishna’s birth and childhood. Temples in these towns feature extensive floral arrangements and colorful decorations, making Janmashtami celebrations truly special.
What makes celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan special?
The Janmashtami festivities kick off ten days before the main celebration, featuring a rich array of cultural and religious events such as Rasleelas (dramatic enactments of Krishna and Radha’s love stories), Bhajans (devotional songs), Kirtans (musical performances), and Pravachans (spiritual speeches). Rasleelas are performed by both professional artists and local devotees at various locations in Mathura and Vrindavan, bringing Krishna’s stories to life.
On the eve of Janmashtami, devotees throng to Krishna temples, with a special focus on the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan and the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura, believed to be his birthplace. These temples are adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and captivating lighting to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Midnight celebration on Janmashtami
A special midnight ritual known as Abhishek marks the exact moment of Krishna’s birth. During this ceremony, the idol of Krishna is bathed with a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and water. Conch shells are sounded during the sacred ablution, bells resonate, and Vedic hymns fill the air. As an expression of devotion and love, devotees offer 56 different food items, collectively known as Chappan Bhog, to Krishna. Subsequently, the prasad, blessed offerings, are distributed among the worshippers, signifying the sharing of divine blessings.
Nandotsav, observed on the day following Janmashtami, celebrates the joyful occasion when Krishna’s foster father, Nanda Baba, distributed gifts and sweets to the residents of Gokul, Krishna’s village, to celebrate his birth. Devotees travel to Nandgaon, Nanda Baba’s birthplace, on this day to offer prayers and assistance to the less fortunate. They also participate in various festivities and games that pay homage to Krishna’s playful nature.
Devotees flock the cities
While celebrating Janmashtami in Mathura and Vrindavan is a unique and unforgettable experience, the number of devotees making pilgrimages to these sacred sites continues to grow each year. It is estimated that over 8 million devotees will visit Mathura for the Janmashtami celebrations later this week. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your trip well in advance and make the necessary arrangements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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