Capital marks Janmashtami festivities with bhajans, dance

The national capital came alive with devotion and festivity on Saturday as thousands of devotees thronged temples and cultural venues to celebrate Shri Krishna Janmashtami. From the grandeur of ISKCON temples to the traditional charm of Birla Mandir, Delhi resonated with bhajans, decorated pandals, flower arrangements and the fragrance of prasad.

At Birla Mandir, celebrations began at 4.30 am with the morning aarti, followed by devotional programmes throughout the day. The grand abhishek of Lord Krishna was scheduled for late at night. ISKCON temples in East of Kailash and Dwarka also drew large crowds, with rituals including Kalash Abhishekam, Maha Abhishek and the midnight maha aarti. A 200-kg cake and one lakh bhogs were prepared as offerings for devotees.

Adding to the fervour, the distinctive Matki Phod League (MPL) 2025 was organised at Thyagraj Stadium. Following the dahi-handi tradition, pots of curd were suspended 25 to 30 feet high, with teams of boys and girls forming human pyramids to break them, delighting the audience. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta attended as chief guest, while Minister of Art, Culture & Languages Kapil Mishra was present as guest of honour. Several MPs, MLAs, religious leaders and representatives of social organisations also joined the festivities.

The 22nd edition of the event, organised by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Social Welfare and Education Promotion Committee, witnessed thousands of Krishna devotees cheering the teams and enjoying cultural performances. Distinguished social workers, intellectuals and officials were honoured with the Chhatrapati Shivaji Award during the programme.

Extending her wishes while visiting temples across the city, CM Gupta said, “Lord Krishna’s teachings continue to inspire us to walk the path of righteousness, justice and duty. His timeless message of courage, compassion and truth shows us the way forward even in difficult times.”

Adding a cultural dimension, Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra staged the 49th edition of its iconic dance drama Krishna at Kamani Auditorium, narrating the life and teachings of Lord Krishna through music, movement and mythological storytelling.