Commemorating the birth of an advocate of justice today

KATHMANDU, Sept 2: A woman was seen forcing a yellow top and a matching pant, along with a peacock feather embedded tiara, onto her young son. It was evident that the boy wasn’t delighted. Nonetheless, his persistence couldn’t withstand the woman’s vigor.   

This mother-son tussle was to celebrate Shree Krishna Janmashtami, where the mother was adamant on presenting her son as Baal Gopal, Krishna’s infancy. Young children imitating Bal Gopal, donning all yellow, is standard practice on this day. 

Cultural expert Nirmala Pokharel said, “Hindus all around the world, especially those who follow Vaishnavism, celebrate Krishna Janmashtami with grandeur. It is an important festival which is celebrated to mark the birthday of Lord Krishna, and also his teachings.” 

On this day, devotees throng the temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Patan’s Krishna Mandir is the most revered religious destination in Kathmandu Valley. Nonetheless, devotees put maximum effort in decorating Krishna temples around their vicinity.

Talking about the significance of celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, Pokharel informed, “His life teaches that even divine power has to face many obstacles in life. Humans should tackle every obstacle through constant action without thinking about profits, and live life with positive affirmations.”

Explaining more about the festival, she added, “Lord Krishna is seen to have used his superpower since his infancy. He conquered every difficulty that came in his life with his thoughtful action and wits.”

Seventy-five years old Purna Bahadur Shrestha and his wife Maiya Shrestha celebrate this festival by fasting, singing hymns that revere the deeds of Lord Krishna, and visiting nearby Krishna temple. The couple has been practicing this custom for more than four decades. Purna Bahadur shared, “We have been celebrating this festival for more than 40 years. Fasting, and worshipping Lord Krishna on this day has brought us peace and prosperity in our family life. We will continue to do so with the same belief.”

Pokharel further elaborated, “Devotees visit Krishna temples on this day wishing for success and prosperity in life, and the ability to overcome life’s challenges. Meanwhile, the life of Lord Krishna and things he did to follow the righteous path, are the source of inspiration for his devotees to lead their life, without being optimistic toward life.”