What is Janmashtami, and why is it celebrated?

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This auspicious day, marked by devotion and joy, commemorates the divine appearance of Lord Krishna on Earth to guide humanity through the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and to establish dharma (righteousness). The festival is observed with great enthusiasm in temples across India, especially in ISKCON temples like ISKCON Newtown.

Janmashtami is more than just a festival; it is a spiritual event that brings devotees closer to Krishna consciousness. The day is filled with Krishna Bhajan (devotional songs), Krishna Thought (meditation on Krishna), and the enactment of Krishna’s childhood pastimes. The celebration signifies the victory of good over evil and the joy of divine love, as seen in the relationship between God Krishna and Radha.

At ISKCON Newtown, Janmashtami is celebrated with grandeur. The ISKCON Mandir is beautifully decorated, and devotees engage in various spiritual activities, including fasting, chanting, and offering prayers. The temple also organizes Anna Daan Seva and Gau Seva, following the compassionate teachings of Prabhupada and the Hindu Script. These services reflect the true essence of Hindu philosophy, where serving others is seen as serving Lord Krishna.

The festival of Janmashtami not only offers a chance to participate in divine celebrations but also provides an opportunity to contribute to the temple’s charitable activities. Donations during this time help sustain the ongoing ISKCON Seva projects, such as Anna Daan Seva, which feeds the hungry, and Gau Seva, which ensures the well-being of cows, considered sacred in Hinduism.

By donating to ISKCON Newtown during Janmashtami, you are participating in a noble cause that aligns with the teachings of the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Bhagavad Gita. Your contributions support the temple’s mission to spread Krishna consciousness and help those in need. Whether it’s through feeding the poor, caring for cows, or maintaining the temple, your donation makes a significant impact.

Janmashtami is a festival that brings together the spiritual teachings of Lord Krishna with the selfless acts of service embodied in ISKCON Seva. By celebrating this festival at ISKCON Newtown and contributing through donations, you become part of a larger mission to spread love, devotion, and righteousness, as taught by Radhe Krishna.