Lord Krishna: Birth Date and Time
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shri Krishna was born on the auspicious day of Krishna Janmashtami, which falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September). The divine incarnation of Lord Krishna is believed to have taken place more than 5,000 years ago in the holy town of Mathura, situated in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India.
As for the exact birth time, it is traditionally believed that Lord Krishna was born at midnight. The divine moment when He made His divine appearance is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion on Krishna Janmashtami, one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism.
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Lord Shri Krishna’s Festivals List
Lord Krishna’s divine presence is celebrated throughout the year with various festivals that hold immense spiritual and cultural significance. Some of the most prominent festivals dedicated to Lord Krishna are:
- Krishna Janmashtami: As mentioned earlier, Krishna Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna. It is observed with fasting, singing of devotional songs, and enacting Krishna’s childhood leelas in the form of dance-dramas.
- Govardhan Puja: Celebrated on the day following Diwali, Govardhan Puja honors the episode where Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on His little finger to protect the villagers from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra.
- Janmashtami (Vaishnava): Some regions in India celebrate Janmashtami on a different date based on the lunar calendar. This version of Janmashtami is followed by Vaishnavites, the devotees of Lord Vishnu.
- Radhashtami: This festival celebrates the appearance day of Radha, Lord Krishna’s divine consort and the embodiment of divine love. It is observed with devotional songs and prayers to Radha and Krishna.
- Holi: While Holi is primarily a festival of colors, it also has a strong association with Lord Krishna. Devotees celebrate Holi as the playful “Lathmar Holi” in Mathura and Vrindavan, reenacting the joyful scenes of Lord Krishna playing Holi with the Gopis.
- Rasa Lila Celebrations: In the sacred town of Vrindavan and other regions, devotees celebrate Rasa Lila, commemorating the enchanting dance of Lord Krishna with the Gopis, expressing divine love and spiritual union.
- Nandotsav: This festival celebrates the joyous occasion when Nanda Maharaja, Lord Krishna’s earthly father, welcomed the divine child into his home after His birth. It is observed with great enthusiasm and joy.
These festivals, among others, celebrate the profound love, wisdom, and divine leelas of Lord Krishna, fostering a deep spiritual connection and devotion among His devotees worldwide.
Lord Shri Krishna’s Most Famous Temples in Vrindavan and There All Temples “Banke Bihari Temple and Prem Mandir”
Vrindavan: The Sacred Land of Divine Love
Vrindavan, nestled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a hallowed town steeped in spirituality and devotion. This ancient city holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees worldwide, as it is believed to be the divine playground of Lord Shri Krishna during His earthly manifestations. Within the sacred precincts of Vrindavan, two prominent temples stand as symbols of eternal love and devotion – Banke Bihari Temple and Prem Mandir.
Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, stands as a marvel of architectural beauty and spiritual significance. The temple’s history dates back to the 19th century when it was established by Swami Haridas, a revered saint and musician. It is said that Swami Haridas was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna and often experienced divine visions of the Lord in his meditations.
The idol of Lord Banke Bihari, enshrined within the temple, is believed to be self-manifested and unique in its appearance. Unlike other idols of Lord Krishna, Banke Bihari’s image depicts Him with His left leg crossed in front of the right one, reflecting His playful and mischievous nature. The mesmerizing charm of the deity is further enhanced by His mesmerizing attire, which is changed several times a day, corresponding to the different phases of daily rituals.
The aura of devotion and fervor inside the Banke Bihari Temple is palpable as devotees from all walks of life throng to catch a glimpse of their beloved Lord. The temple’s ambiance echoes with bhajans, kirtans, and the melodious sounds of the flute, evoking a sense of divine bliss and spiritual ecstasy.
Prem Mandir
A relatively newer addition to Vrindavan’s spiritual landscape, Prem Mandir, also known as the Temple of Divine Love, is a resplendent edifice that stands as a testament to Lord Krishna’s divine love. Built by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, a revered spiritual leader, the temple is a grand architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate carvings and exquisite marble work.
Prem Mandir enshrines the captivating deities of Radha Krishna and Sita Ram, symbolizing the eternal bond of love shared by these divine couples. The temple’s captivating illumination at night is a sight to behold, as it showcases the divine leelas (divine actions) of Lord Krishna in a mesmerizing light and sound show.
Apart from the main temple, the expansive complex of Prem Mandir also houses beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains, creating a serene and blissful environment for contemplation and prayer. Devotees visit Prem Mandir not only to seek the blessings of the divine but also to immerse themselves in the profound experience of divine love and devotion.
Conclusion
Vrindavan, with its enchanting temples like Banke Bihari Temple and Prem Mandir, beckons devotees and seekers from across the globe to bask in the divine love and spirituality of Lord Shri Krishna. The sacred town, forever associated with the playful leelas and divine grace of Lord Krishna, continues to be a cherished destination for those seeking solace, enlightenment, and a deeper connection with the eternal source of love.
A visit to Vrindavan, where the air is infused with devotion and the heart resonates with the melodious chants of devotion, is an experience that lingers in one’s soul forever – an experience of being in the embrace of divine love.