Birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated as a Krishna Janmashtami which is also known as Gokulashtami, Sree Jayanti, Yadukulashtami, and so on. This year Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 11 and 12.
According to the Hindu texts, Lord Krishna came into this world as the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu and destroyer of the evil on this day. The whole nation comes together to celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna with much fervour and enthusiasm.
Many customs have developed in the different parts of India, all based on stories from Krishna’s life. For instance, it is said that as a boy, Krishna loved butter and milk so much that they had to be kept out of his reach. This story is reflected in many climbing games for children.
Have a look at top 5 places where Krishna Janmashtami is a great-affair and you are surely going to miss the celebrations amid coronavirus:
Mathura-Gokul-Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
The three places associated with Krishna’s childhood – Mathura, Gokul, and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh— are the go-to destinations for those who plan to celebrate Janmashtami away from home. Mathura that happens to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna has some 400 temples dedicated to Him, all of which are decorated beautifully during this time. Chanting of shlokas, enactment of Raas Leela, fireworks, and jhulotsava are some common ways to welcome Krishna at all these three places. Celebrations begin almost 10 days before the birthday.
Udupi, Karnataka
Acclaimed for its Shri Krishna Temple, Udupi is a community in Karnataka. Set up in the thirteenth century, Udupi Krishna Math pulls in a huge number of travelers from all over India. Janmashtami is commended in a one of a kind route in Shri Krishna Temple. The custom of pouring milk is performed at midnight and an assortment of desserts is offered to the Lord.
Imphal, Manipur
Unlike the other festivals of North India that aren’t as famous in this part of the country, Janmashtami witnesses a huge crowd of devotees at Mahabali Temple Sri Govindjee Temple. People observe fast and visit the temple offering floral tribute to Lord Krishna. Folk dance performances are a major part of the Janmashtami festivities in Manipur.
Puri, Odisha
Famous for Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha has its own set of celebrations that are unique to the region. People observe fast till midnight which is considered as the hour of Krishna’s birth and chant “Hare Krishna” and “Hari Bol”. Religious songs are sung and verses from the Bhagavad Gita are recited at the temples, which are beautifully decorated for the special festivities. Several forms of sweets are cooked at home and distributed among everyone.
Dwarka, Gujarat
Accepted to be set up by Krishna alongside his senior sibling ‘Balram’, Dwarka is considered as the ‘Entryway to salvation’. At the Dwarkadheesh Temple, Lord Krishna is enhanced with Gold, Diamonds, Topaz, and different valuable pearls on his birthday. Lovers head to this wonderful city to get the favors of the incomparable power.
