A Grand Celebration for the Divine Child
The Akshardham Temple in Delhi comes alive with joyous festivities during Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth. Here’s what devotees and visitors can experience:
- Occasion: Janmashtami (The birth anniversary of Lord Krishna)
- Significance: A revered occasion for Hindus worldwide, Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Vishnu. Devotees celebrate his playful spirit, divine wisdom, and his message of love and devotion. The Akshardham Temple, although dedicated to Swaminarayan, observes Janmashtami with great enthusiasm.
- Festivities and Activities:
- Cultural Programs: The temple often organizes vibrant cultural programs showcasing classical dance and music performances depicting scenes from Krishna’s life, such as his childhood pranks or the epic Mahabharata.
- Tableaux and Exhibitions: Tableaux (living displays) depicting Krishna’s leelas (divine plays) or informative exhibitions on his teachings might be organized, offering a deeper understanding of his significance.
- Special Jhanki Darshan: The temple’s central murti (idol) of Swaminarayan may be adorned with special decorations, and devotees are offered a special “Jhanki Darshan” (glimpse) to commemorate Krishna’s birth.
- Offerings and Abhishekam: Devotees might offer sweets, fruits, and flowers to the murti. In some years, an abhishek (bathing ceremony) with milk, ghee (clarified butter), and other sacred offerings might be performed on a murti of Krishna.
