The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKON) will mark Janmashtami, the Birth Day of Lord Krishna on August 10, 2012.
Janmashtami is an occasion celebrated by millions of Indians and followers of Lord Krishna, denoting the dawn of a new era of righteousness, piety, progress and prosperity. An Avatar of Lord Vishnu, Krishna is also known for his pivotal role in the Battle of Kurukshetra at which he delivered the ‘Bhagavad Gita,’ respected as the most Sacred Book of the Hindus.
While some devotees celebrate Janmashtami after midnight when the Lord was born, others mark the event on the first day before midnight.
Born more than 5000 years ago amidst heavy downpour, Lord Krishna’s early years were characterised by mischief, pranks and great humour. Devotees celebrate the event with the blowing of ‘Shankh’ (Conch), performing ‘Abhishek,’ bathing the idol in water, milk, turmeric and other substances (the system varies between regions), chanting Slokam or prayers, conducting discourses on the Lord’s life, bravery, diplomacy and victories, Mangala Aarti and Maha Prasad.
The ISKON Temple would echo with the slogans of ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ and paying floral tributes to their favourite God.
The Maha Prasad at ISKON also comprises the ‘Pancha Amrit,’ a mixture of five items including Ganga Jal, Honey, Sugar, Ghee and Curd. Food is also offered to the Deity, ranging from 56 dishes to 108 dishes in some temples.
Rocking the Cradle
Rocking the cradle in which Lord Krishna rests is another important part of Janmashtami. Krishna devotees believe that devotes rocking the cradle containing the Lord would have their wishes granted.
I hope you would be able to participate in the ‘Maha Kalash Abhishek Ceremony,’ scheduled to be held at the 1229 Coatesville-Riverhead Highway Riverhead, about 23 kms from Auckland’s Central Business District.
Raja Venkatesh is a banker by profession and works with a number of communities serving at Temples and Churches in Auckland. He is in the picture with his wife Latha at the Janmashtami celebrations held last year. Further details about the forthcoming ceremony can be obtained from him (on 021-1091423), Ram Tek (on 022- 6475630), Govind Kinkar (021- 1035050) or Divya Govind (021-2563065).
