Celebrating the Birth of Lord Kṛṣṇa

Five thousand years ago, Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, descended from the spiritual world and appeared in Vrndavana, India. Naturally an occasion of great joy for His devotees, His birthday, Janmastami, was celebrated with opulence and gaiety. The original Janmastami took place in Vrndavana at the house of Krsna's foster father, Nanda Maharaja. Learned brahmanas and astrologers led the festivities, and all the town's residents joined in the singing, dancing, and feasting. Each year since then Lord Krsna's devotees have marked the auspicious event in the same way. Today, people from many nations, having heard about this wonderful day, take pleasure in celebrating Janmastami. The following pages depict last year's festival at Bhaktivedanta Manor, near London, England.