We all are excited as  Lord Krishna is soon to come at our home to eat Makhan as Janmashtami is on 19 August. Janmashtami is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. According to the Hindu calendar, it is observed on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha. This is an important festival in Hinduism. Krishna Janmashtami has great significance in Mathura and Vrindavan. It is said that Lord Krishna was born in Mathura and spent his childhood in both Mathura and Vrindavan. Devotees also perform fast on this auspicious day. 

Vrindavan: Vrindavan is one of the place to visit where Janmashtami is celebrated with enthusiasm. It is believed that Lord Krisna grew up here. It is also believed that it is actually the place where Lord Krishna did Ras Leela with Radha and gopis. The celebration starts 10 days ahead of Janmashtami in Vrindavan.

Dwarka: You may heard about the significance of Dwarka in Shree Krishna’s life. Dwarka is believed to have been the kingdom of Lord Krishna. Dwarka is considered to be the place where Lord Krishna lived for five thousand years after leaving Mathura. Janmashtami here is a month-long celebration which is characterized by Mangal Aarti that is performed all across the city.

Mumbai: You might get shocked by reading the name of Mumbai in the list but it is true you can visit Mumbai on Janmashtami. This city is also known for celebrating Janmashtami in the best possible way. It is certainly one of the best places to visit, especially during Janmashtami. You can find large groups of people visiting the Dahi handi venue in their respective costumes and enjoying the ritual of breaking the earthen pot of curd. 

Mathura: Mathura is Krishna’s birthplace and for sure the birth place of Lord Krishna is best place to visit.  It is therefore obvious why it is one of the most happening places in the country to be at during Janmashtami., Devki gave birth to Krishna in a prison cell in Mathura. The Celebrations of Krishan Janmotsav here take place in two parts – Jhulanotsav and Ghatas. Juhlanotsav is the custom wherein people put swings in their homes for Krishna idols.  

Gokul: One of the places which played a significant role in Shree Krishna life. Gokul is certainly one of the top attractions in Janmashtami since Lord Krishna was taken immediately to this place after his birth. Janmasthami in Gokul is called Gokulashtami and is celebrated one day after the rest of the country celebrates this festival. During the celebration, devotees chant mantras, sing bhajans, ring chimes, blow shells, etc. 

Odisha: Jagannath in Odisha is a quintessential temple of Lord Krishna. According to legends, Lord Krishna’s heart was tied to a log and immersed in the ocean. It is Jagannath temple in Puri where Krishna’s heart can be found. All the major temples in Odisha are beautifully decorated and the special prasad called the Jeudi Bhog is prepared with a belief to ease the labor pain while giving birth to Lord Krishna. 

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