Today is The festival of Krishna Janam Ashtami.
This morning I thought of my eldest brother.
The festival decoration used to be a time of excitement in our home.
My eldest brother's creativity on that day would swing in full force.
The Mathura jail, Krishna's birthplace was made with cardboard box.
He would design the river with actual water flowing
With most up to date electrical gadgets available.
A figurine of Vasudeva holding baby Krishna in basket would be placed in there.
The forest of Vrandavan was created with mango leaves and twigs.
Mountain of Goverdhan was made with pebbles and stones.
We all kept fast, had a fruit and lemonade to sustain us till midnight
And kept ourselves busy whole heartedly with an amazing excitement,
Lending a helping hand when ever we could to set up the Jhanki,
As these decorations depicting life events of Krishna's life are called.
On day of Krishna Janam Ashtami these Jhankis are set at many places
People visit temples and family homes to watch, admire and celebrate.
Since Krishna was born in jail, on this day jails are specially decorated.
At night visiting local jail to watch Krishna-plays performed by prisoners
Were one of the high lights of the evening still reverberating in my heart.
At mid nigh Krishna Janam was done by Amma behind a curtain held by us children.
Grand finale, Arti, prayers and Prasad with the most delicious food.....
The good old days flash back in mind.......
Happy Krishna Janam Ashtami
