Sri Krishna Jayanti

        Sri Krishna Jayanti (Janmashtami) marks the celebration of Sri Krishna’s birthday. Sri Krishna was born on the eighth day (ashtami) of the dark lunar fortnight of Bhadrapada Masa on the Rohini Nakshatram (star). This day usually falls in August or September.

        Sri Krishna was the eighth child of mother Devaki and father Vasudeva. His parents were imprisoned by Kamsa, brother of Devaki. An astrologer predicted that Kamsa would be killed by Devaki’s son. Kamsa therefore imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva and killed their first seven children. When Sri Krishna was born, he was taken away secretly to Gokula, where he was raised as a cow herder by Yasoda and Nandaraja. The Bhagavata Mahapurana describes the birth and lilas of Sri Krishna in a very beautiful way.

        Sri Krishna is considered the most lovable and approachable form of the Lord. Many sages and Alwars like Sri Andal, Sri Kulashekar Azhwar and Nammaazhwar have paid homage to Sri Krishna by singing glorious verses in praise of him.The most significant gift from Sri Krishna is the Sri Bhagavad Gita. The teachings of the Gita are a foundation for the spiritual path that Hindus follow every day. Prominent scholars consider the Bhagavad Gita to be a means to reach the Supreme Lord and to attain peace of mind.
        
        Sri Krishna Jayanti signifies not merely the birth of a great and divine teacher of mankind in the distant past, but the lighting of the spark of divine power in every one of us, which spurs us on to play our dynamic part in this world of practical and hard realities with a sense of high spiritual purpose. Sri Krishna is very attractive and a source of joy. Therefore, Sri Krishna Jayanti is a joyous occasion celebrated with pomp and show.
        In our Temple, Sri Krishna Jayanti is celebrated during the evening of Rohini Nakshatram in the Bhadrapada Masam. The celebration starts with an abhishekam for the Sri Krishna utsava murti, followed by an utsava (procession) throughout the Temple. The function includes other religious rituals like the recitation of Kulashekar Azwar’s Mukunda Mala and the tenth section of the Bhagavata Purana. In addition, ksheera tarpana is offered to the Moon and Sri Krishna. Since the completion of the addition to the Temple in 2003, the Sri Krishna utsava murti is brought out to the front terrace and watches the Utti Utsava, a joyous event for children which is arranged outside on the Temple lawn. In this event, children jump and try to catch a moving clay pot filled with yogurt and suspended with a rope and pulley. Even adults may participate and feel the joy of being Sri Krishna’s companion in play.