Sri Krishna Janmasthami

About Janmasthami

​Origins:

• Ancient Roots: Janmashtami's roots trace back thousands of years to ancient Vedic scriptures and Puranic texts, which narrate the life and teachings of Lord Krishna.  

• Mathura and Vrindavan: These cities in India hold immense significance in Krishna's story. Mathura is his birthplace, while Vrindavan is where he spent his childhood.  
   

The Story of Krishna's Birth:

• Kansa's Tyranny: Sri Krishna was born during a time of turmoil. His maternal uncle, the evil King Kansa, ruled with an iron fist. A prophecy foretold that Kansa would be killed by Devaki's eighth child, so he imprisoned his sister and her husband, Vasudeva.  

• Divine Intervention: Despite Kansa's attempts to kill all of Devaki's children, Lord Sri Krishna was born miraculously. On the night of his birth, a divine plan unfolded. Vasudeva, guided by divine intervention, carried the infant Lord Sri Krishna across the Yamuna River to safety in Gokul.  

• Gokul and Vrindavan: Lord Sri Krishna was raised by his foster parents, Nanda and Yashoda, in the pastoral lands of Gokul and Vrindavan. He spent his childhood amidst cowherds, playing pranks, and enchanting everyone with his divine charm.  
   

Celebration and Significance:

• Midnight Hour: As per sacred texts, Lord Sri Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight, so Janmashtami celebrations often culminate with prayers and rituals at this hour.  

• Fasting and Devotion: Devotees observe fasts, sing devotional songs, and visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings.  

• Re-enactments: Many communities re-enact scenes from Lord Sri Krishna's life, such as his birth in a prison cell and his playful childhood escapades.  

• Spiritual Significance: Janmashtami is not just a celebration of Krishna's birth; it symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the importance of living a righteous life.  
   

Janmashtami continues to be a cherished festival for millions around the world, reminding us of Lord Sri Krishna's timeless teachings of love, compassion, and devotion.