Why we celebrate Janmashtami?
I remeber my school days when I played Radha's role in a dance song with Krishna and was feeling so great about it as I never knew I was so good at dancing, thanks to all my teachers and principals.. but I have some connection with Krishna.. my love of my life is there as my Hubbyn in my life and he is the most caring, loving and protective to me..
here comes few other revelations .. do read till end
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Here's a brief overview of why we celebrate Janmashtami:
Significance:
1. Divine Incarnation:
- Janmashtami marks the birth of Krishna, who is believed to be the supreme God incarnated to restore dharma (righteousness) and destroy adharma (evil). Krishna's birth is considered a divine event that brought hope and liberation to the world.
2. Symbol of Goodness Over Evil:
- Krishna’s life and teachings emphasize the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and righteousness over injustice. His birth is celebrated as the arrival of a divine force that guides humanity towards ethical and spiritual living.
3. Celebration of Divine Play (Leela):
- The festival commemorates Krishna's divine pastimes and leelas, which include his childhood miracles, his role as a lover, and his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita. These stories reflect his divine nature and the joy he brought to his devotees.
Celebratory Practices:
1. Fasting and Prayers:
- Devotees observe fasting and engage in prayers and devotional singing to honor Krishna. The fast is usually observed from dawn until midnight, the time believed to be Krishna's birth.
2. Dressing and Decoration:
- Temples and homes are decorated with flowers and lights, and images of Krishna are adorned with new clothes and jewelry. Many people also recreate scenes from Krishna's life in various dramas and plays.
3. Midnight Celebrations:
- The festival culminates at midnight, believed to be the exact time of Krishna’s birth. Devotees gather in temples and homes to celebrate with songs, dances, and rituals, expressing their devotion and joy.
4. Dahi Handi:
- In some regions, particularly in Maharashtra, people celebrate with a traditional event called Dahi Handi, where groups of young men form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd and butter, symbolizing Krishna's love for these foods.
Conclusion:
Janmashtami is a vibrant and joyous celebration that not only honors the birth of Lord Krishna but also embodies his teachings and divine qualities. It serves as a reminder of the enduring presence of divine grace and the importance of leading a righteous and virtuous life.
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