Sri Krishna Janmashtami is a sacred occasion that marks the divine appearance of the Supreme Lord. In the Bhagavad-gita 4.7-8, Lord Krishna declares that whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, He appears to annihilate the miscreants, protect the pious, and re-establish religious principles. Over 5,000 years ago, Lord Krishna graced the divine holy places like Vrindavan and Dvaraka, captivating all with His enchanting pastimes and timeless teachings.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami is an opportunity to express our love and devotion to Lord Krishna. Here are five simple ways to celebrate this special day:

1. Offer prayers to Lord Krishna

On Janmashtami, offer your heartfelt prayers to Lord Krishna by reciting the beautiful prayers of great devotees. You can also chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, a powerful mantra that connects you with the Lord.

2. Visit the temple of Lord Krishna

Visiting a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is a soul-enriching experience during this festive season. The grandeur of Lord Krishna’s Deity and the spiritual ambience of the temple fill you with a sense of awe and gratitude. Visitors can offer flowers and heartfelt prayers to Lord Krishna, witness the exquisite alankara (decorations) of the Deities, participate in melodious kirtans (devotional songs), savour Sri Krishna Prasadam, and receive His divine blessings.

3. Serve the Lord through Seva                                   

Active participation in the festivities through voluntary service is a fulfilling way to celebrate Janmashtami. Many temples, including the renowned ISKCON Bangalore, warmly invite devotees to contribute their time and efforts to prepare for the festival. Volunteering for sevas will help you foster a deeper connection with the Lord through selfless service.

4. A Culinary Offering to Krishna

Sri Krishna is the enjoyer of all sacrifices. Prasadam, the remnants of food offered to Lord Krishna, purifies us and accelerates our spiritual progress. And, the Lord says in the Bhagavad-gita 9.26, “If one offers Me with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit or water, I will accept it.”

This Janmashtami, you can please the Lord by arranging a delightful assortment of Sattvik food items or simply with some fresh fruits and nuts. Offer them with love and devotion.

5. Read the Bhagavad-gita on this day

On Janmashtami, immerse yourself in the wisdom of the Bhagavad-gita. This sacred scripture imparts profound insights into life, duty, and spirituality. Reading and contemplating on the Bhagavad-gita equips us with the wisdom to navigate challenges and uncertainties. Lord Krishna’s teachings are a guiding light, illuminating the path toward righteous living and self-realization.

Janmashtami is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our connection with the Supreme Lord. Through heartfelt prayers, temple visits, selfless service, culinary offerings, and devotional reading, we can invite the grace of Lord Krishna to enter our hearts and lives.

Join ISKCON Bangalore in celebrating Sri Krishna Janmashtami on 6 & 7 September at Hare Krishna Hill, Rajajinagar and Vaikuntha Hill, Vasanthapura. We are also organising celebrations at KTPO, Whitefield, on 7 & 8 September.

Take part in the grand celebrations along with your family and friends. Be blessed by the divine mercy of Lord Krishna!

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