Janmashtami: Devotional fervour marks Krishna's birth across Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar's historic Ghantaghar area in Lal Chowk resonated with devotional chants and bhajans on Friday as devotees gathered to celebrate Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. The holy yatra featured traditional religious songs performed throughout the day, creating a peaceful and festive atmosphere in the heart of the city. Children dressed as Lord Krishna and Radha added to the vibrant tableau, reflecting the region's rich cultural and religious traditions.

In a significant moment for the Kashmiri Pandit community, a grand Shri Krishna Janmashtami procession was taken out in Kupwara district after several decades, reviving a cherished tradition. The procession began at the revered Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tikker and travelled nearly seven kilometres to the Shiv Mandir in Trehgam. A large number of Kashmiri Pandits from Kupwara and adjoining areas participated, with men, women and children joining in with enthusiasm and devotion. Carrying religious flags and chanting hymns, the procession moved along the route amid traditional fervour and music. Senior Superintendent of Police Kupwara, Syed Al-Tahir Gilani, was present, and security arrangements were in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event.

Udhampur district also witnessed vibrant festivities as hundreds of devotees took to the streets for a massive Shobha Yatra. The celebrations across the region highlight the observance of Krishna Janmashtami, an annual Hindu festival marking the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. The festival is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada of the Hindu luni-solar calendar, which falls in August or September of the Gregorian calendar. Across the country, the occasion is marked with prayers, temple visits, religious processions, bhajans and other traditional celebrations, with temples decorated and devotees gathering in large numbers to offer prayers.