Introduction to the Festival:
Janmashtami is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated as the birth of Lord Krishna. This festival is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhadrapada, which typically falls in August or September. It is particularly celebrated with grand celebrations in places associated with Krishna like Mathura, Vrindavan, and Dwarka.
The Story Behind Janmashtami:
In the Dvapara Yuga, King Ugrasena of Mathura had a son named Kamsa, who imprisoned his father and took over the throne of Mathura. Kamsa’s sister, Devaki, married Vasudeva. While they were on their way to their home after the wedding, an ominous voice from the sky proclaimed that Devaki’s eighth son would be the one to kill Kamsa. Upon hearing this, Kamsa imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva and ordered the killing of each of their newborn children. Seven children had already been killed, and the eighth child was about to be born.
At the same time, Yashoda, the wife of Nand Baba, gave birth to a daughter. By the divine command of Lord Vishnu, Vasudeva placed the newborn Krishna in a basket and took him to Nand Baba's house, bringing back Yashoda’s daughter in exchange. When Kamsa tried to throw the baby girl on the ground, she flew into the sky and declared, "Kamsa! The one who will slay you, Krishna, is in Vrindavan." Subsequently, Lord Krishna defeated Kamsa and handed over the throne of Mathura to King Ugrasena.
Why We Celebrate This Festival:
Janmashtami is celebrated with joy to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. It is a day of fasting, devotional singing (bhajan-kirtan), Ras Lila performances, and processions. The festival symbolizes the victory of truth over evil, the establishment of dharma, and the destruction of adharma (unrighteousness).
Key Traditions of Janmashtami:
Fasting and Night Vigil:
Devotees observe fasting and keep a vigil throughout the night, as Lord Krishna was born at midnight.
Bhajan-Kirtan and Ras Lila:
Devotees sing devotional songs in praise of Krishna, and the Ras Lila, a dance drama depicting the divine play of Krishna, is performed.
Matki Phod:
Women hang a clay pot filled with curd and butter at a height, which is broken by men and boys dressed as Lord Krishna.
Processions and Floats:
Processions with displays of Krishna’s birth and life are held, often with elaborate floats and tableaux.
Significance of the Festival:
Establishment of Dharma:
Lord Krishna incarnated to destroy evil and establish righteousness (dharma).
Message of Devotion and Love:
Krishna is the epitome of devotion and love, spreading the message of love and goodwill in life.
Social Unity:
The festival promotes unity and brotherhood in society, as people come together to celebrate with devotion.
Janmashtami is a celebration of Lord Krishna’s life and teachings, inspiring us to follow the path of truth, righteousness, love, and devotion.