People in Dehradun thronged temples across the city to offer prayers to lord Krishna on the occasion of Janmashtami.
The number of devotees in temples here was more than usual because the astrological configuration said to have existed during the birth of Krishna was once again seen on Wednesday after a about 5,100 years, according to astrologers. Public functionaries including the Governor Dr Aziz Qureshi and Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna also participated in the celebrations being held at Geeta Bhawan and other venues on the occasion. They exhorted the public to imbibe the teachings of lord Krishna in their lives and work for the welfare of society.
Temples were decorated and illuminated for the occasion with queues of devotees waiting their turn to offer obeisance to the lord. Apart from this, many people had organised special prayers at their homes and community venues. The festival was also commemorated in various schools where students staged plays and sang songs based on Krishna. Prayers and celebrations continued well into late night as devotees waited till 12 am- the time of Krishna’s birth.