The nation prepares to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna; see photo | Photo gallery

Janmashtami celebrations began with religious fervor throughout the country, decorating temples and organizing “Dahi Handi” and other events. The markets were abuzz with customers, who were buying Lord Krishna’s beautiful idols and other decorative items. The Janmashtami festival marks the birth of Lord Krishna, considered the eight avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is celebrated on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha in the Shraavana month of Bhadrapad. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna, the son of Devaki and Vasudeva, was born in Mathura at midnight on the eighth day of the month of Bhadrapada. President Drupadi Murmu greeted the country on this auspicious occasion and said that it inspires us to follow “the path of virtue in our thoughts, words and actions”. In a message, the President said: “On the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, I extend my cordial greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens living in India and abroad”. “Lord Krishna’s life and teachings included the message of well-being and virtue. He propagated the concept of” Nishkam Karma “and enlightened people on attaining the ultimate truth through the ‘Dharma’ Path. I pray this Janmashtami holiday it inspires us to follow the path of virtue in thought, word and deed, “added the message.

(AFP)