Hindus across the country are celebrating Shri Krishna Janmastami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, today (Monday) with devotion and fanfare by organising various programmes.

According to scriptures, Lord Shri Krishna was born at midnight on Bhadrakrishna Astami, the eighth day of the waning moon in the Nepali month of Bhadra (mid-August to mid-September), according to the lunar calendar during the Dwapar era.

Lord Krishna is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the protector of humanity from evil, injustice, and malevolent forces. He is also celebrated as the proponent of the three principles: Gyanayog, Karmayog, and Bhaktiyog.

Shri Krishna Janmastami is celebrated in a grand manner to honor Lord Krishna’s good deeds and his guidance for a happy and prosperous life. According to legend, Lord Krishna, born to Basudev and Devaki while they were imprisoned by his uncle Kansha in Mathura, led humanity on the path of knowledge, truth, and immortality.

Lord Krishna is also known as "Gopal" for his dedicated service as a cowherd, and as "Manmohan" for the enchanting melodies he played on his flute.

Devotees on this day flock to Lord Krishna's temples, including the famous Shri Krishna Temple at Mangal Bazaar in Lalitpur. The renowned stone temple, an artistic masterpiece, was built by the then King of Patan, Siddhi Narsingh Malla.

Various religious organizations and institutions celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna by organizing colorful processions, featuring idols of Lord Krishna and decorative portraits.

Devotees, especially women, spend the night chanting prayers, singing devotional songs, dancing, and lighting oil-fed lamps. -- RSS