As devotees gather to honour his birth, the tale of Krishna's miraculous arrival inspires hearts, reminding us of the enduring power of faith and the timeless victory of good over evil, writes DIVYA BHATIA
In the stillness of the midnight hour, when the world is wrapped in darkness, a divine light descends upon the earth, heralding the birth of Lord Krishna. Janmashtami, a festival that transcends time, celebrates this miraculous moment when the cosmos rejoiced, and the universe conspired to bring forth a savior destined to restore dharma and vanquish evil. As the bells ring out and devotees gather in reverence, the story of Krishna's birth is retold-an epic tale of love, courage, and the triumph of righteousness. It is a night when the heavens dance in celebration, and hearts are filled with the timeless wisdom of the one who forever changed the course of humanity.
Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Krishnashtami, Janmashtami, or Gokulashtami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated with devotion across India and by Hindu communities worldwide. This occasion marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu, whose life and teachings inspire millions. Observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in Shravana Masa (amanta tradition) or Bhadrapada Masa (purnimanta tradition), Janmashtami typically falls in late August. The festival is not just a religious event but a celebration of the values Krishna embodied.
Krishna's birth is a tale of divine drama in Hindu mythology. Born to Queen Devaki and King Vasudeva in Mathura, his arrival was marked by peril. Devaki's brother, the tyrant King Kamsa, imprisoned the couple after hearing a prophecy that foretold his death at the hands of their eighth child. Kamsa had already killed six of their children. To protect Krishna, Vasudeva secretly transported the newborn across the Yamuna River to Gokul, where he was raised by Nanda Maharaj and Yashoda.
Krishna's escape and triumph over Kamsa symbolize the victory of good over evil, a central theme of Janmashtami. The festival reminds devotees of the eternal struggle between righteousness and wickedness, urging them to uphold virtue. Krishna's life represents divine intervention that restored justice, reinforcing the timeless value of standing against injustice.
The metaphor of Janmashtami is rich in symbolic meaning, depicting the eternal battle between good and evil and the soul's journey toward spiritual awakening. Kamsa symbolizes the destructive ego, while Devaki represents human consciousness carrying divine potential. Vasudeva symbolizes human will aligned with divine purpose. Krishna, the incarnated soul, nurtured in a righteous environment, eventually overcomes the ego (Kamsa) to establish peace and harmony, reflecting the soul's journey to transcend ego and realize its divine nature.
Sadhvi Tapeshwari Bharti Ji of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan eloquently describes the metaphors surrounding Krishna's birth, noting that Kansa represents the ego, with its demon-like qualities such as arrogance, pride, and ignorance. According to her, Devaki symbolizes the part of the human self that harbors consciousness, while Vasudeva represents the will attuned to divine command. Krishna, as the incarnated soul, must separate from the ego to fulfill his purpose, much like the soul must detach from worldly desires to attain spiritual enlightenment.
Divya Guru Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, founder of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, further elaborates on this symbolism. He suggests that the soul, nurtured in a holy and righteous environment (symbolized by Yashoda and Nandlal), must evolve to ultimately overcome the ego, leading to inner peace and harmony.
Sri Gaur Prabhuji, Vice President of ISKCON Temple Dwarka, Delhi, emphasized that Janmashtami is a profound reminder of Lord Krishna's teachings for humanity's upliftment. Celebrating the 5251st anniversary of His appearance highlights the enduring relevance of the Bhagavad Gita, guiding lives toward devotion, humility, and love. In today's world, marked by pandemics and conflict, Krishna's divine wisdom is essential. This festival is a key moment to reconnect with dharma and strengthen the bond with the Supreme Personality.
In today's chaotic world, Krishna's teachings provide insights for managing stress, leading an ethical life, and fostering personal growth. The Bhagavad Gita's emphasis on equanimity and detachment offers tools for navigating modern pressures. Krishna's principles of selfless duty and moral values guide ethical decision-making and achieving a balanced life. His focus on self-realization encourages introspection, helping us understand our true selves amid distractions.
This philosophy extends to Janmashtami foods, chosen to reflect Krishna's principles of balance, purity, and nourishment. The simple, nutrient-rich ingredients like fruits, nuts, seeds, and grains not only sustain the body but also maintain mental clarity and spiritual focus. Just as Krishna's teachings guide us toward a balanced life, these foods nourish both body and soul, reinforcing the connection between what we consume and how we live.
Dr. Sangeeta Tiwari, Clinical Nutritionist at Artemis Lite, NFC, New Delhi, explained that Janmashtami foods are designed not only to sustain energy during fasting but also to offer numerous health benefits. Ingredients like fruits, nuts, seeds, dairy, and gluten-free grains such as buckwheat and amaranth provide essential nutrients that support overall well-being. Fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, aiding hydration and digestion. Nuts and seeds offer healthy fats and proteins for sustained energy and brain health. Dairy ensures gut health and muscle support, while grains like buckwheat provide slow-releasing carbohydrates to maintain energy levels. Together, these foods ensure balanced energy, digestion, and hydration during the fast, promoting overall health.
Janmashtami is more than just a celebration of Lord Krishna's birth; it is a profound reflection on the eternal struggle between good and evil, the importance of righteousness, and the path to spiritual awakening. As devotees come together to celebrate this festival, they are reminded of the timeless wisdom that Krishna imparted, wisdom that continues to guide humanity toward a life of purpose, peace, and harmony. In a world that often feels disconnected from spiritual values, Janmashtami serves as a beacon, illuminating the path of righteousness and divine love.
Where to celebrate?
DJJS Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2024 at Dwarka, New Delhi
Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) celebrates Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav 2024 under the theme "Darshan Itihaas Ka, Parivartan Aaj Ka" (Recalling the Values of the Past & Transforming the Present) on August 25th and 26th, 2024. The festival will be held at DDA Ground, Sector 10, Dwarka, New Delhi, starting from 7 PM each evening.
This year's celebration features several unique and innovative elements designed to enhance the festival experience. A major highlight will be the Environment Conservation initiative, showcased through a remarkable Govardhan Mountain 3D Model. Echoing Lord Krishna's dedication to environmental preservation in the Govardhan Leela, this massive, cutting-edge model will incorporate digital and lighting elements. The model will also feature Sankalp/pledge placards representing various commitments to environmental conservation.
The event will unfold with captivating performances, including 15 dance ballets and theatrical presentations depicting significant episodes from the life of Jagatguru Shri Krishna. Key performances will include dramatic interpretations of the 'Slaying of Tyrant Ruler Kansa', 'Virat Roop Darshan of Shri Krishna', 'Slaying of Kaliya Snake', 'Paundraka-The Fake Krishna', 'Devotion of Social Reformer Meera Bai', and 'Joyful Birth Celebration of Lord Krishna'.
