Krishna Janmashtami, also known simply as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It is an important festival particularly to the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism. It is observed according to Hindu luni-solar calendar, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha.
Information about Krishna's life is noted in the Mahabharata, the Puranas, and Bhagavata Purana. Krishna is the eighth son of Devaki (mother) and Vasudeva (father).[5] Surrounding the time of his birth, persecution was rampant, freedoms were being denied, and King Kamsa's life was threatened.[14] Krishna was born within a prison in Mathura, India where his parents were constrained by his uncle, Kamsa.[5] During Devaki's wedding, Kamsa was warned by a celestial voice that Devaki's eighth son would be the cause of his death.[5] In an effort to defy this prophesy, Kamsa imprisoned his sister Devaki and her husband and promptly killed the first six of her newborns after their birth.[5] The guards responsible for keeping watch over Devaki's cell fell asleep and the cell doors were miraculously opened at the time of Krishna's birth.[5] These events allowed Vasudeva to send Krishna across the Yamuna River to his foster parents, Yashoda (mother) and Nanda (father).[5] This legend is celebrated on Janmashtami by people keeping fasts, singing devotional songs of love for Krishna, and keeping a vigil into the night.[15] Throughout Krishna's childhood and young adult life, Balarama, Krishna's half-brother, was a "constant companion" for him. Balarama joined Krishna in the major events that are celebrated in Vraja, Brindavan, Dravarka, and Mathura such as stealing butter, chasing calves, playing in the cow pens, and participating in wrestling matches.[16]
Krishna Janmashtami, the joyous celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth, is one of the most significant festivals in India. Every year, millions of devotees come together to honour Krishna’s life and teachings through vibrant celebrations across the country. From the divine atmosphere of Mathura, Krishna’s birthplace, to the energetic Dahi Handi festivities in Mumbai, each region has its unique way of commemorating this sacred event. For those looking to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Krishna Janmashtami 2024, exploring India’s top destinations is a must. These locations not only offer spiritual solace but also allow you to experience the festival’s colourful and lively traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the serene temples of Vrindavan or the grandeur of the Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat, the festivities at these destinations promise a memorable and spiritually uplifting experience.
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