By Bisheshwar Mishra
The festival of Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated in different parts of the country with religious fervour today. On the occasion, devotees observe fasts, perform ceremonies and visit temples. Sweets and other foods associated with Krishna are prepared and offered to Lord Krishna. Devotional songs and chanting are performed throughout the day and often late into the night. Temples and homes have been decorated with scenes depicting episodes from Krishna’s life, such as his childhood in Gokul and Vrindavan.
The city of Lord Krishna, Mathura-Vrindavan, is decked up for the grand celebration tonight. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will take part in Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura today. In view of the huge crowd of devotees coming from across the country and abroad, extensive security arrangements have been made in the city.
Prez, Vice Prez, PM and Union Ministers extend greetings on occasion of Janmashtami
President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have extended their greetings on the occasion of Janmashtami. In a social media post, President Murmu said that the life story and messages of Lord Shri Krishna infuse vitality into Indian culture and philosophy. She urged everyone to embrace the ideals of Lord Shri Krishna and continuously work towards building an inclusive and Viksit Bharat.
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan said that the life and message of Lord Krishna inspire humanity to walk the path of truth, righteousness, duty, and virtuous conduct. He urged the citizens to resolve to imbibe the eternal teachings of Lord Shri Krishna in their lives and contribute to strengthening unity, peace, and harmony in society.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that in the divine messages of Lord Shri Krishna lies the profound inspiration for selfless action, which has continuously guided humanity. He wished that the sacred occasion, dedicated to the devotion and worship of Lord Shri Krishna infuses positive energy and strength into everyone’s life.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has extended his greetings on the occasion of Janmashtami today. In a social media post, Mr Shah wished that Lord Krishna continues to shower his blessings on everyone.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended his wishes on the occasion. He said that the immortal message of Lord Krishna in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita inspires devotion to duty, discernment, patience, and the welfare of all. Mr Singh wished that the grace of Lord Krishna bring happiness, peace, prosperity, and well-being to the nation, and joy, hope, and renewed energy fill the lives of every family.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also extended greetings to the people on Janmashtami. He said devotion and love for Lord Shri Krishna are boundless among his countless devotees in India and across the world. Mr Birla said the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita offers timeless guidance on duty, ethics, justice, wisdom, courage and balance in life.

