Janmashtami or Krishnashtami is the celebration of the birthday of the Hindu God, Lord Krishna. It is celebrated all over the world by Hindus. On this day every temple dedicated to the God is adorned with flowers and festivities take place.
There are hymns sung in his name and devotees come from far and wide to visit the Lord and offer prayers to him. Although the festivities are done throughout the world here we take look into the places where the Lord himself was directly associated.
Mathura
One of the place to visit during Janmastami is the city of Mathura which is also known as ‘Land of Eternal Love'. It is here where Lord Krishna grew up. Today a metro city, Mathura still has the glory of the past kept here. Devotees come from far and wide to this place to explore the land where their dear God grew up.
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Celebrations
The festival of Janmashtami is celebrated in Mathura with great vigour and devotion. All the Krishna temples in the city are full during the day and the whole place wears a festive look. Rasleela, a dance drama that narrates the story of Lord Krishna, is played in all the temples and during midnight celebrations are organised in these temples to mark the time when the Lord was born.
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Vrindavan
One of the holy cities in India is Vrindavan which is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna grew up. The place is know to have over 5000 temples dedicated to the Lord. It is a spiritual city and is believed that those who come here become closer to God. Tourists and devotees come far and wide to this city in this same belief.
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Celebrations
During the day of Janmashtami, the whole town soaks in worship and the echoes of hymns related to Lord Krishna can be heard from everywhere. A few temples that celebrate the festival include Banke Bihari Temple, Sri Krishna Balaram temple, Radharaman Temple and ISKCON Temple.
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Dwarka
Another place to visit during Janmashtami is the city of Dwarka also known as Dwarawati. According to Sanskrit scriptures this place is one of the seven most ancient cities of India and was the home of Lord Krishna.
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Celebrations
The temple of Dwarka is famous for its Janmashtami celebrations. The idol of Lord Krishna is bathed in the morning, adorned with ornaments that include diamonds and other precious stones; after which the darshan is allowed to the devotees. There is a major celebration held within the temple premises for the whole day.
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