Janmashtami is the birth anniversary of
Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of
Lord Vishnu. It is celebrated all over India. Janmashtami is the most important festival of
Mathura. The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great pomp and splendor here.
Raslila or the enactment of the various episodes of Krishna’s life is the main feature of the celebrations. Ceremonies in the temples at midnight include bathing of the image of infant Krishna which is then placed in a silver cradle. Devotional songs are sung and toys are offered for the amusement of the divine child. Thousands gather to offer their prayers and Mathura is astir with celebrations. Nightlong prayers are offered and religious hymns are sung in the temples all over the country.
