Krishna Janmashtami lit. ”Occasion of the birth of Krishna”, also known simply as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the ninth avatar of Vishnu.It is an important festival, particularly in the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism.Dance-drama enactments of the life of Krishna according to the Bhagavata Purana (such as Rasa Lila or Krishna Lila), devotional singing through the midnight when Krishna was born, fasting (upavasa), a night vigil (Ratri Jagaran), and a festival (Mahotsav) on the following day are a part of the Janmashtami celebrations.

Krishna was born in an area of chaos. It was a time when persecution was rampant, freedoms were denied, evil was everywhere, and when there was a threat to his life by his uncle King Kansa. Immediately following the birth at Mathura, his father Vasudeva Anakadundubhi took Krishna across the Yamuna, to foster parents in Gokula, named Nanda and Yashoda who were Vasudeva’s brother and sister in law. with Krishna, avatar of serpent Shesha Balram was also incarnated on earth as Krishna’s older brother who was the son of Rohini, Vasudeva’s first wife. This legend is celebrated on Janmashtami by people keeping fast, singing devotional songs of love for Krishna, and keeping a vigil into the night.

Bhalanetra Superspeciality Eye Hospital and its team wishes you all a Happy Janmashtami and safe Dahi Handi!