Krishna Janmashtami

By Chitra

 
Popularly called as Janmashtami, this festival marks the birthday of one the most lovable gods of the Hindu folklore, Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who came in the corporeal world to destroy evil. This festival is celebrated in the months of August - September according to the Hindu calendar. Janmashtami is celebrated with people paying a visit to local Krishna temples, which are particularly adorned and lit for the occasion.
 A major highlight of the day is "dahi-handi" in which young boys form a human pyramid and try to reach a pot of curd, which is tied high up. It is believed that Lord Krishna used to steal curd and butter from neighboring houses by forming human pyramids with his friends. Just before midnight, devotees visit temples and perform a special "aarti" to mark the birth of lord Krishna as he was born at midnight.

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