ASIA SCENE: A celebration of the birth of the Lord Krishna

A revered religious saying – Mother Yashoda wished to punish and discipline her playful child Krishna for stealing butter. Open your mouth she ordered the naughty one and as he innocently obeyed to show what he was eating, Yashoda was astonished to see the whole world in his mouth. She realised the child was not an ordinary mischievous being but an Avtaar a reincarnation of God himself. Last Monday the Hindu faithful observed Janmashtami the festival to celebrate the birth of this special child worthy of love and devotion, Krishna.

It is believed that Vishnu the mythological Lord Protector was beseeched to rid mankind of evil forces. He obliged and himself became the saviour by assuming a human form – Krishna. This birth of the Avtaar is revered as Janmashtami and it is an occasion to fast, visit temples, pray together, sing and dance besides organising special recitations of Bhagvad Gita and preparing and sharing special meals. The very name Krishna spells out love and devotion. The philosophy of Karma and nonattachment to material surroundings as preached in the Lord’s celestial songs provide heavenly solace and enlightenment.

The human character and colourful life of Lord Krishna coupled with the romantic and soothing flute playing  and luring his beautiful milk maids, the Gopis, makes him one of the most admired and loved Hindu deities. His colourful and romantic life and worldly achievements have inspired many a cultural and religious expositions from times immemorial. Film makers, dance, ballet and drama producers the world over have capitalised on the immense life content and devotional moods of the deity’s story. At home, Kenyan Asian theatre and dance institutions have always excelled when presenting expositions based on the Krishna theme.

Kenyan faithful and Krishna bhagats displayed great reverence and enthusiasm visiting temples, singing bhajans in praise of the romantic Lord and offering special prayers for love, understanding and peace to prevail within our borders and beyond. Gifts were exchanged and traditional sweet dishes enjoyed at family and communal get togethers.