08/25/97 - 1009

Janmastami celebrated all over the world

(VNN) On August 25th millions of worshipers worldwide are celebrating the birthday of Shri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. In India as well as in many countries of the Western world this day is considered the most auspicious day of the year by devotees. It celebrates the appearance of Shri Krishna 5000 years ago in Mathura, India on this day.

In celebration of this event devotees of the Lord fast on this day till midnight. At the same time many preparations, in some temples as many as 108 or more, are prepared for the deities and offered on the altar.

In the evening the deities if the Lord are bathed in what is called an abisheka. In this ceremony the deities of the Lord are bathed in many liquids like milk, yogurt, cream, rose water, honey. The bathing water, which is called carinamrita, is then distributed to the devotees.

Many other festivities are planned during this day in many temples and homes throughout the world. Usually everyone is invited to these festivities and is open to the public. Please contact you local temple for information.