The festival of Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated across the country with religious fervour today. On the occasion, devotees observe fasts, perform ceremonies and visit temples. Sweets and other foods associated with Krishna are prepared and offered to Lord Krishna. Devotional songs and chanting are performed throughout the day and often late into the night. Temples and homes have been decorated with scenes depicting episodes from Krishna’s life, such as his childhood in Gokul and Vrindavan.
Akashvani Uttar Pradesh Correspondent reports that the city of Lord Krishna, Mathura-Vrindavan, is decked up for the grand celebration tonight. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will take part in Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura today. In view of the huge crowd of devotees coming from across the country and abroad, extensive security arrangements have been made in the city.
President Droupadi Murmu has extended greetings to citizens on Janmashtami. In her message, the President said the life and teachings of Lord Krishna breathe new life into India’s cultural and philosophical heritage. She said Lord Krishna’s teachings, embodied in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, remain an eternal source of inspiration for humanity to make prudent decisions during difficult times and remain steadfast in moral values.
The President said Janmashtami inspires everyone to uphold the spirit of harmony and devotion to duty and service. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also extended greetings to the people on Janmashtami. He said devotion and love for Lord Shri Krishna are boundless among his countless devotees in India and across the world. Mr Birla said the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita offers timeless guidance on duty, ethics, justice, wisdom, courage and balance in life.