Janmashtami, or more popularly known as Krishna Janmashtami is the birthday of Lord Krishna which is celebrated with great fervour and zeal in India during the monsoon month. It is observed on the eighth day (ashtami) of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada (August“September) in the Hindu calendar. Janmashtami is also known as Krishnashtami, Gokul Ashtami, Saatam Aatham, Astami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti, or Sree Jayanthi in different regions of India.
It is one of the most important and popular festivals in Hinduism, as Krishna is considered to be the supreme deity and the embodiment of love, compassion, and wisdom. Krishna Janmashtami holds deep spiritual significance for devotees. Lord Krishna, as depicted in the Bhagavad Gita, represents the divine essence and eternal truth and he also delivered the Bhagavad Gita, which is considered to be one of the most sacred scriptures in Hinduism. His teachings provide guidance on living a righteous life and understanding one’s true self. Dahi Handi is another important aspect of this festival that is observed in the second day of Janmashtami. As a kid Lord Krishna was named "Makhanchor" or the one who steals butter. He used to steal butter from every household of Gokul. Dahi Handi is an event where the same butter stealing activity of Lord Krishna is narrated. An earthen pot or handi is filled with butter, clarified butter or ghee, dry fruits, and milk is suspended at a considerable height with help of ropes.
All the local young guys gather to make a human pyramid and climb on each other to reach the handi and break it. The festival’s diverse celebrations reflect the universal values of devotion, righteousness, and spiritual growth that Krishna embodies. Celebrating Krishna Janmashtami is more than commemorating his birth; it is an opportunity for spiritual reflection and renewal. Devotees use this time to strengthen their connection with the divine and seek blessings for themselves and their families.
Lord Krishna is considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu Trinity. His life story, as depicted in the epic Mahabharata during the Dharma Yuddha or righteous war between two Pandavas and Kauravas, Lord Krishna played the charioteer of Arjuna. He was counselling Arjuna on various segments of life like Dharma (righteous path), Karma (deeds), Theistic Devotion, Yogic ideals, salvation, knowledge, etc. because Arjuna was in emotional turmoil in killing his brothers and cousins. Krishna Janmashtami is a festival that transcends geographical boundaries and resonates with people of all ages.
Among students and children, it fosters cultural understanding and offers them to connect with their cultural heritage, learn valuable life lessons, and participate in joyous celebrations through traditional rituals, creative activities, or modern adaptations, Krishna Janmashtami remains a vibrant and cherished occasion that continues to inspire and uplift individuals across the globe. Therefore, it’s a festival that brings people together in a spirit of harmony, faith, and celebration.
(The author is a lawyer primarily practicing in various courts in Goa including the Bombay High Court at Goa in Porvorim and having taught previously as a visiting faculty for IPR subject at Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts and Science, Margao. )
