Janmashtami, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, celebrates the divine birth of Lord Shri Krishna, the eighth reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. The festival’s name is derived from the Sanskrit words “Janm” (birth) and “Ashtami” (eighth), signifying the day Krishna was born—on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada.
The story of Krishna’s birth is deeply embedded in Hindu scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana. Born to Devaki and Vasudev in a prison cell, Krishna’s life was threatened from the moment he entered the world. His uncle, the wicked King Kansa, feared a prophecy that foretold his death at the hands of Devaki’s eighth son. To save his child, Vasudev braved the stormy waters of the Yamuna River, carrying Krishna in a basket to the village of Vrindavan. Here, Krishna was raised by Yashoda and Nanda, safe from Kansa’s evil designs.
Janmashtami is more than just a commemoration of Krishna’s birth; it is a celebration of the eternal battle between good and evil, with Krishna symbolizing the triumph of righteousness. Devotees across the world observe the day with fasting, devotional singing, and recreating the playful and miraculous deeds of Krishna through the Dahi Handi tradition.
This year, as we mark the 5250th anniversary of Lord Krishna’s birth, we also reflect on how the divine presence of Krishna continues to influence our lives. The fragrance of Prabhu Shriram Leela incense sticks beautifully captures the essence of Krishna’s leelas (divine plays). Just as the scent of these incense sticks fills the air with purity and devotion, Krishna’s teachings permeate our hearts with the values of love, compassion, and righteousness. Lighting a Prabhu Shriram Leela incense stick during Janmashtami rituals enhances the spiritual atmosphere, making the connection to Krishna’s divine presence even more profound.
As we celebrate Janmashtami, let us invite the divine fragrance of Prabhu Shriram Leela into our homes, allowing it to remind us of Krishna’s eternal message—the victory of good over evil, and the power of divine love in our lives.
