Krishna Janmashtami also known as Gokulashtami marks the birthday celebration of Lord Krishna. Lakhs of devotees have arrived in Mathura, considered to be the birthplace of Krishna, on the occasion of Janmashtami. Mathura is gearing up for yet another colourful celebration of Krishna Janmashtami.
According to the Hindu calendar, Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in Bhadrapad month or on ashtami of Krishnapaksha.
Janmashtami celebration in Mathura
The Janmashtami is celebrated across India with great enthusiasm. Special arrangements have been made for devotees in Mathura. Mathura has historical and religious importance in Hinduism.
On Krishna Janmashtami, devotees also celebrate Dahi dandi festival which celebrates God’s playful side wherein they used to break the pot of curd which was kept at the height. Children dress up as Lord Krishna gestures ahead of Janmashtami celebrations.
Krishna Janmashtami festival is followed by the festival Nandotsav, which is the occasion when Nanda Baba distributed gifts to the community in honour of the birth. The saints and priests will begin puja (prayers) from 6:00 pm onwards on August 24.
Temples of Mathura and Vrindavan that you must visit
Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
The Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura was built around the same prison where Krishna was born. Situated very close to Mathura railway station, this temple is one of the major attractions in Mathura.
Kesava Deo Temple
Kesava Deo temple also known as the Keshav Dev temple is also another most sacred shrines of Mathura. Situated right next to Krishnabhoomu, Kesava Dev is the main deity of this temple.
ISKCON Vrindavan
The Krishna Balarama Temple is one of the main temples of ISKCON situated in Vrindavan. The main deities of this temple are both Krishna and Balarama who is Krishna’s elder brother.
f you are planning to head to Mathura to experience how people celebrate Krishna’s birth then let us tell you, you are going to have the time of your life. You do not have to worry about the stay options in Mathura since there are a lot. Do not expect the 3-star accommodations that you find in cities. The hotels and homestays in Mathura are decent enough and are ideal for a couple of days’ stay. And because Janmashtamai is just few days away, make your reservations before they are all booked.
Happy Janmashtami!