The birth of Krishna occurred to restore cosmic order in the universe. Janmashtami means celebrating the birth (janma) of Krishna on the eight (Ashtami) day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada (August – September) Janmashtami represents the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of Dharma. The evil king Kansa and his allies were defeated. Krishna is seen as symbol of love, righteousness and divinity. Continue reading
Growing up as children in India as a Hindu, one learns a great deal from our numerous festivals. It is not taught but one’s awareness becomes heightened watching family members. All the festivals are based on triumph of good over evil. I am sharing with you the history and background and how this becomes a part of one. Continue reading
Hindu festivals have no sadness, and our festivals celebrate triumph of good over evil, the expression of devotion to the deities and thanks for the harvests. Each festival centers around the rituals of prayer and seeking of blessings. This also entails new clothes, cleaning and decorating the homes and making sweets and savories for offerings. Feasting and dancing are present in many of the festivities. Continue reading
Who does not love butter? My grandchildren love it.
Our association with butter is Baby Krishna, and he is called a butter thief. Today is his Birthday, Janam Mashtmi.
Baby Krishna and even as an adult would drink the milk, eat the yoghurt and polish off the butter. The gopis and gopas were ecstatic when he did this. He would sometimes break the pots and would share his booty with the monkey brigade. Continue reading