Janmashtami: How Lord Krishna's birthday is celebrated across India
What's the story
Janmashtami, celebrating Lord Krishna's birth, is observed with enthusiasm throughout India. Each state adds a unique touch to the festivities, creating diverse and vibrant celebrations and showcasing India's rich cultural diversity. These include traditional rituals in temples, cultural performances, and community feasts. The festival takes on various forms across the country, which reflects the deep cultural heritage embedded in Indian society.
Tradition
Dahi Handi in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the celebration of Janmashtami features the Dahi Handi event. Here, young men create towering human pyramids to reach a pot of yogurt hung high. This act symbolizes Lord Krishna's playful butter theft. Enthusiastic crowds gather to watch and cheer them on. Dahi Handi also showcases physical agility and a strong community spirit. Moreover, cash prizes are often awarded to teams that win.
Culture
Raslila performances in Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna spent his early years, Janmashtami is celebrated with fervent devotion. The Raslila performance, a dramatic reenactment of scenes from the deity's life, stands out as the festival's highlight. These performances are deeply ingrained in the region's cultural heritage and transcend mere religious rituals to embody the spirit of devotion.
Devotion
Special prayers in Odisha, West Bengal
In Odisha and West Bengal, devotees flock to temples on Janmashtami. They pray until midnight, marking Lord Krishna's birth. The Jagannath Temple in Puri and ISKCON temples in these states attract the most worshippers, who engage in kirtans and partake in bhogs (feasts) for Lord Krishna. This tradition underscores the profound spiritual link of these regions to Lord Krishna, blending devotion with cultural celebrations.
Display
Decorative jhankis in Rajasthan
In Rajasthan, Janmashtami is celebrated with jhankis, which are decorative dioramas that depict Lord Krishna's life. Temples and households compete to create the most elaborate displays using dolls, lights, and flowers for their decorations. This tradition not only enhances the celebration's visual appeal but also promotes artistic expression. It has become a vibrant and integral part of the festivities.
Culinary tradition
Fasting, feasting across states
On Janmashtami, people in many states observe a fast until midnight to celebrate Lord Krishna's birth. At midnight, the fast ends with a vegetarian feast shared by families and communities. The meal typically includes sabudana khichdi, fruits, and sweets like coconut or sesame seed ladoos, which are considered the deity's favorites. This tradition fosters communal harmony, too.