How is Krishna Janmashtami celebrated in different parts of India

Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami or simply Janmashtami, is celebrated by the Hindu community in India with great enthusiasm but the traditions and customs associated with the festive celebrations vary from one state to another. Here’s how Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated in different parts of India

Mathura and Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh): Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna, celebrate Janmashtami with grandeur. Devotees engage in ‘Dahi Handi’ events, where young men form human pyramids to break a clay pot filled with butter or curd, replicating the childhood antics of Lord Krishna. Temples, especially the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, are decorated beautifully, and devotees visit them for darshan (sight) of the deity.

Gujarat: In Gujarat, Janmashtami is celebrated with ‘Rasa Lila’ performances, where scenes from Lord Krishna’s life, especially his playful interactions with the gopis (milkmaids), are reenacted through dance and drama. People also create intricate rangoli designs outside their homes. Traditional sweets like ‘Churma,’ ‘Panjiri,’ and ‘Mohanthal’ are prepared and offered to Lord Krishna.

Maharashtra: The ‘Dahi Handi’ tradition is prevalent in Maharashtra as well, where groups called ‘Govindas’ form human pyramids to break the handi (pot) suspended at a height. Mumbai, particularly in areas like Dadar and Lalbaug, witnesses fierce and competitive Dahi Handi events. Special Janmashtami processions are organised, featuring idols of Lord Krishna.

Bengal: In West Bengal, Janmashtami is celebrated as ‘Janmashtami’ and ‘Nanda Utsav.’ Devotees fast until midnight when Lord Krishna was born, and then they break their fast. Elaborate jhulan (swing) decorations are prepared for the deity, and idols are adorned with new clothes and jewellery. Devotional songs and dance performances are organised.

Tamil Nadu and Kerala: In the southern states, Janmashtami is celebrated as ‘Gokulashtami.’ Devotees prepare a variety of sweets and savories like ‘seedai’ and ‘murukku.’ They create small footprints with rice flour leading to the puja room, symbolizing Lord Krishna’s childhood adventures.

Punjab and Haryana: In these states, Janmashtami is celebrated with ‘Raas Leela’ performances, where people depict Lord Krishna’s playful dance with the gopis. Temples and homes are decorated with flowers and rangoli.

Rajasthan: In Rajasthan, Janmashtami is celebrated with ‘Phoolon Ki Holi,’ where flowers and colored powders are used instead of traditional water and colours. Devotees visit temples, and processions featuring idols of Lord Krishna are taken out.

While these are some regional variations in how Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated in India, the central theme of devotion and reverence for Krishna remains consistent throughout the country. The joyous festivities, devotional songs and cultural performances make Janmashtami a vibrant and spiritually enriching festival for people across India.