The ISKCON Belagavi branch hosted special programmes to mark Shri Krishna Janmashtami on Friday
Special pujas, cradle ceremonies, devotional songs, bhajans, kirtans, chanting of Lord Krishna’s name and distribution of prasada marked the occasion at Krishna temples in Belagavi, Chikodi, Raibag, Athani and Nippani taluks. Elaborate festivities were organised at the ISKCON Temple in Belagavi, where preparations had been underway for the past four days. The temple premises and adjoining roads were decorated with floral arches, garlands, colourful displays and illumination, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere for devotees.
Belagavi : Shri Krishna Janmashtami was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across Belagavi district on Friday.
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Shri Krishna Janmashtami is observed on Krishna Paksha Ashtami under Rohini Nakshatra, according to religious tradition. Usually, Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra coincide on the same day. As Ashtami Tithi continues into Saturday, a Dahi Handi programme has also been planned for Saturday night. Children added colour to the celebrations by dressing up as Krishna, Radha, Yashoda and Gopikas for fancy-dress contests, rangoli competitions and school events. Special contests such as Gopal-Gopika, Yashoda-Krishna and Gopika Nandana competitions were also organised. Cultural performances, devotional dances and music programmes enhanced the festive spirit. The ISKCON Belagavi branch organised midnight abhisheka, maha aarti and spiritual discourses delivered by Bhakti Rasamruta Swamiji. Traditional dahi handi events and community sports competitions were also held in several localities and at the MLIRC camp. Download the TOI App.
This year, however, Ashtami Tithi extends till Saturday, while Rohini Nakshatra concludes on Friday night, prompting many devotees to observe the festival over two days. Seers and organisers at the ISKCON temple said that since Lord Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight, special pujas, cradle rituals and religious ceremonies would be performed at midnight on Friday.