Janmashtami Celebrations in Dwarka

If you are spirituality, mysticism and religiousness are what intrigues you, you would certainly find a lot of places to visit in India for a gratifying vacation! One place that should top your bucket list, in that case, is undoubtedly Dwarka, located in the state of Gujarat in India. In spite of the fact that this 2500-year-old city remains crowded with visitors throughout the year, the best time or rather the most ideal time to visit Dwarka would be during Janmashtami. The most convenient way to get to Dwarka would be by road, by renting a car in Ahmedabad.

Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami is basically a Hindu religious festival which celebrates the birth date of Lord Krishna who was the 8th avatar of Lord Vishnu. Nearly all devotees of Lord Krishna offer pujas on this occasion and temples which have an idol of Lord Krishna also take part in these celebrations. The city of Dwarka is recognised as a Hindu pilgrimage site, owing to the presence of the Jagat Mandir or the Dwarkadhish temple which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Dwarka is in fact known as the "city of Lord Krishna" and considered one of the 'Saptapuris' (seven oldest and holiest religious sites) of the Hindu pilgrimage. Consequently, Janmashtami is celebrated as the most auspicious occasion in Dwarka, Gujarat.

The celebration of the Janmashtami festival in the Dwarkadhish temple of Dwarka is well-known all over India, as a result of which, hundreds of tourists visit this place during this time each and every year. So, if you are planning to witness one of the most special occasions in Dwarka, you should certainly visit this place during Janmashtami. The day begins with a regular 'mangalarti' in the morning followed by the Lord Krishna's Nitya Karma. However, one can easily make out the special festive air, owing to the rows of light the city is lit with, the constant bhajans that are sung and played throughout the day as well as the continuous sermons being delivered in every nook and corner of the city. The idols inside the temples are adorned with expensive and antique jewellery especially for the occasion of Janmashtami, and such is the splendour of the event that special security has to be arranged for to control the excessive crown that visits the place during this time.

Every year, there are a lot of pilgrims who fast throughout the day to offer their prayers to Lord Krishna on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami. In most temples, the rituals of Jhulan and Janmotsava are organized which usually start from midnight that marks the time of birth of Shri Krishna. The Dwarkadhish temple remains open throughout the night and you will be surprised to know that even during midnight, there are hundreds of people waiting in the queue to get a chance to offer their prayers to Lord Krishna.

You would definitely have an experience of a lifetime if you visit Dwarka on Janmashthami. However, if you are someone who prefers quiet spiritual places, this would not be the right time for you to visit Dwarka. You can easily get a car on rent in Surat that would take you to Dwarka in very little time. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and have a great trip!

By : Seema Gurnani