Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is a cherished annual Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna. He is revered as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and holds a significant place in Hindu mythology. This auspicious occasion is marked by devout fasting, elaborate poojas, and seeking the blessings of Lord Krishna.
Devotees across the world celebrate this divine event with great enthusiasm, adorning temples and homes with intricate decorations. In some regions, the festival also includes the spirited observance of Dahi-handi.
The zenith of the celebration occurs at midnight, believed to be the exact moment of Krishna's birth. During this time, fervent crowds gather at temples to perform a special pooja, enveloping the atmosphere in devotion and spirituality.
The story of Krishna Janmashtami intertwines with the reign of King Kamsa, who ruled over Mathura. Kamsa, Devaki's cousin and a loving brother, rejoiced in her marriage. However, an ominous prophecy changed the course of his life. A celestial voice foretold that Devaki's eighth son would be his undoing.
Alarmed by this prophecy, Kamsa imprisoned Devaki and her husband, Vasudeva. He unleashed a cruel tyranny upon the people of Mathura and vowed to eliminate any potential threat. As Devaki gave birth to each child, Kamsa ruthlessly took their lives, snuffing out their existence.
However, hope persisted as Devaki became pregnant with her eighth child, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The divine moment arrived during the Dwapara Yuga, on Ashtami (the eighth day) of the month of Shravan, at the stroke of midnight. This auspicious day came to be celebrated as Krishna Janmashtami.
At the miraculous birth of Lord Krishna, the prison's doors swung open, and the guards fell into a deep slumber. A celestial voice guided Vasudeva, revealing the path to save the newborn. Carrying Krishna in a humble basket, Vasudeva embarked on a perilous journey across a swollen river, aided by Sesha Naga on a rainy night.
In a heartwarming twist, Vasudeva exchanged his son for the daughter of his dear friends Yashoda and Nanda Baba in Gokula, ensuring Krishna's safety. Returning to Kamsa's prison, Vasudeva presented a girl, and Kamsa, in his blind rage, attempted to curse her. To his astonishment, the girl transformed into her true divine form and proclaimed that his true nemesis was alive and well, awaiting the destined moment to confront him.
In the loving care of Yashoda and Nanda, Baby Krishna thrived and grew in the tranquil environs of Gokul. Ultimately, Lord Krishna emerged as the beacon of goodness, ending Kamsa's reign of terror and liberating his parents from captivity.
Krishna Janmashtami, at its core, symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over evil and the divine presence of Lord Krishna on Earth. It is a day to embrace spirituality, seek blessings, and celebrate the eternal love and wisdom of Lord Krishna.
Radha Radhe 🙏