Devotees throng Krishna Temple at Lalitpur in Nepal on Janmashthami

Lalitpur (Nepal): Thousands of devotees formed long, winding lines on Monday to enter the Krishna Temple in Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna. Shri Krishna Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, is being observed with deep devotion and reverence across the Himalayan nation.

The Birth of Lord Krishna
According to the scriptures, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the protector of humanity from evil, injustice, and devilish forces, was born at midnight on Bhadrakrishna Ashtami according to the lunar calendar during the Dwapar era. He is also revered as the proponent of the three principles of Gyanayog, Karmayog, and Bhaktiyog.

Devotion and Rituals
Shri Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with grandeur to honour the good deeds of Lord Krishna, believed to bring happiness and prosperity. "Early in the morning, we take a bath, worship the God, perform rituals, and visit the temple to pay obeisance. We observe fasts and pray for the well-being of our families," said Basanta Acharya, a devotee, in an interview with ANI.

Nightlong Celebrations
Devotees, especially women, spend the night chanting prayers and devotional songs, dancing, and lighting oil-fed lamps. The renowned and artistically designed Shri Krishna Temple, which stands tall in Patan Durbar Square, was constructed entirely of stone by the then King of Patan, Siddhi Narsingh Malla.

Festive Processions and Rituals
Various religious organizations and institutions mark the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna by organizing colourful processions featuring idols of Lord Krishna flanked by decorative portraits. "We have continued the practice of 'Krishna Jhula' in my home. We fast for the entire day, even forsaking water. In the evening, we make offerings, perform evening rituals, and then partake in sacred food. Devotees stay awake all night chanting and singing hymns and songs," said another devotee, Gyanu Mahato.

Legacy of Lord Krishna
Ancient scriptures recount that Lord Krishna, born to Vasudev and Devaki while imprisoned by Kansha in Mathura, guided humanity on the path of knowledge, truth, and immortality. Known as "Gopal" for his dedicated service as a cowherd and "Manmohan" for the enchanting melodies he played on his flute, Lord Krishna continues to charm and inspire devotees around the world.

(With ANI inputs)