Celebrate Janmashtami in BC
One of the biggest religious festivals in the world, Janmashtami is celebrated by nine hundred and thirty million people around the world. This year Janmashtami will fall on August 14th. This date marks the birth Krishna, who is one of the most popular Gods in the Hindu pantheon. He was born at midnight on ashtami, the eighth day after the full moon in the Vedic calendar.
Krishna is considered to exist everywhere at all times. He is considered personable, mischievous, a romantic lover and the most compassionate friend. He responds to the distinct feelings and desires held most deeply in the heart of every single worshipper and will reciprocate accordingly.
Hindus celebrate this warrior, hero, teacher and philosopher for two days. The first day is called Krishna ashtami or Gokul ashtami – a day of deep spiritual renewal and celebration. The second day is known as Kall ashtami or Janam ashtami – that finishes an old year and begins a fresh one.
To mark Krishna’s birth, people sing bhajans – traditional Hindu songs, prepare food from milk and curds said to be favoured by Krishna, dance, re-enact scenes from Krishna’s early life in plays, and place images of Krishna in temples while the shankh (conch shell) is played and bells are rung.
If you would like to learn more about this religious festival or the beliefs around Krishna, head to the Surrey Public Library. With their ample books, DVDs, and CDs, you will be sure to find delight in the stories of Krishna.