Happy Birthday, Lord Krishna! Janmashtami celebrated in Patria

Patria Post's stamp issue for Janmashtami 2016.

The highlight of the Dog Days of August in Patria is the celebration of Janmashtami or Krishna Jayanti, the day believed to be the birthday of Lord Krishna. Krishna was believed to be born on the eighth day (ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapad (August–September) in the Hindu calendar and this year’s Janmashtami falls on August 25. The celebrations take place not only at homes and temples, and on radio stations where regular programming is pre-empted by bhajans (devotional songs) but also in the public squares and streets of Patria. Children play games such as trying to break a piñata-like earthen pot filled with candies or other munchies, to recall Krishna's childhood leelas (games) of stealing butter. Skits are enacted in which kids play the role of Krishna, Radha and the gopas (cowherds) and gopis (cowgirls) of Vrindavan.

To celebrate Janmashtami, scenes from Krishna's life are enacted by children dressed as gods and goddesses.

Amrita Party House Leader celebrating Janmashtami

The Hon. Member from Arboria and Amrita Party House Leader delivered her traditional Janmashtami message. In her message, Amma noted:

"Krishna taught Arjuna that behind every action is God’s power. If we abandon the feeling of doership and surrender to being an instrument in God’s hands, that divine power will flow through us. If we become like a pipe attached to the tank, all the water in the tank can be used for the sake of many through us. When we become a zero, we truly become a hero. Whatever we want will become possible, and we will be freed from all anxiety and fear. The Lord called this capacity as karmasu kaushalam—“dexterity in action.” This is one of the most important teachings the Lord gave the world.

There are similarities and differences between the earth and Lord Krishna. The earth attracts everyone and so does Sri Krishna. However, while the earth pulls everyone down, Sri Krishna draws one and all up to the heavens. “Perform your duties wholeheartedly with an attitude of surrender and detachment. Be happy, smiling and enthusiastic in life like a child.” This was Sri Krishna’s message."