Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna, falls on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha. Considered to be the most powerful incarnation of Vishnu, Godhead of the Hindu Trinity, Krishna is considered to be an enigma; a leader, a hero, protector, philosopher, teacher and friend. It is believed that he lived between 3200 to 3100 BC, and was born at midnight during the Hindu month of Shravan.
The occasion is celebrated with much fervour and gusto all across India and its neighbouring countries. It is called Dahi Handi in Mumbai and Pune, and its rituals include breaking pot of yoghurt/ buttermilk, commemorating Krishna's love for butter. Gujarat, home to Dwarka, the Lord's kingdom, celebrates the festival by visiting the Dwarkadhish temple. Janmashtami is a national holiday in Bangladesh, and enthusiastically observed by the 80 per cent Hindus in Nepal.
Born to free Earth of its evils, Lord Krishna plays a major role in Hinduism and its mythology.
[Any organisation or temple celebrating Janmashtami, please feel free to send us information in 25 words, about the celebration to be featured in our coming event section. Email: [email protected]. Deadline: 31 August 2015, 12pm.]
