New Delhi: Krishna Janmashtami, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is being celebrated with religious fervour and devotion across India. The festival marks the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered in Hindu tradition as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The occasion is observed not only as a religious festival but also as a celebration of the values, teachings and ideals associated with Krishna’s life.

According to Hindu scriptures and traditional beliefs, Lord Krishna was born at midnight in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva. His birth took place during the reign of King Kansa, who was known for his cruelty and oppression. Devaki was Kansa’s sister, but a prophecy warned the king that her eighth child would become the cause of his downfall.

Fearing the prophecy, Kansa imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva. When Krishna was born, Vasudeva is traditionally believed to have carried the newborn child across the Yamuna River to Gokul, where he was raised by Nanda and Yashoda. Krishna’s childhood stories, including his playful activities and his deep bond with the people of Gokul, have become an important part of Indian religious and cultural traditions.

Janmashtami is celebrated to commemorate this divine birth and to remember Krishna’s role in protecting righteousness. His life is widely associated with the principle that good ultimately triumphs over evil. Devotees also remember his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna speaks about duty, devotion, self-discipline and maintaining balance in life.

The festival is observed in different ways across the country. Devotees often undertake fasting during the day and gather at temples for prayers and devotional programmes. Since Krishna’s birth is traditionally believed to have occurred at midnight, many temples organise special ceremonies around midnight. Religious songs, bhajans, chanting and readings from Hindu scriptures form an important part of the celebrations.

Homes and temples are decorated with flowers, lights and colourful ornaments. Idols of infant Krishna are placed in decorated cradles, symbolising the birth of the divine child. Children frequently participate in cultural programmes portraying different episodes from Krishna’s childhood.

One of the most popular traditions associated with Janmashtami is Dahi Handi. Particularly famous in Maharashtra, the event involves groups forming human pyramids to reach and break a suspended pot. The tradition is inspired by stories of young Krishna and his companions playfully stealing butter and curd.

Janmashtami holds special importance in places associated with Lord Krishna, particularly Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh and Dwarka in Gujarat. Elaborate religious and cultural programmes attract devotees to these destinations during the festival.

Beyond its religious significance, Janmashtami reflects India's diverse cultural heritage. The festival brings families and communities together and promotes traditions involving music, dance, drama and devotional art.

For millions of devotees, Janmashtami is ultimately a reminder of faith, devotion, compassion and righteousness. The celebration of Krishna’s birth continues to connect generations with India’s spiritual traditions while reinforcing the enduring message that righteousness should prevail over injustice.

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