August 26 will mark Lord Krishna’s 5251st birthday. (Image: Shutterstock)
Whether you’re looking for spiritual immersion or a cultural experience, these five temples and places in the capital are perfect to soak in the divine energy of this auspicious day.
As Janmashtami 2024 approaches, Delhi is set to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna with vibrant festivities. Whether you’re looking for spiritual immersion or a cultural experience, these five temples and places in the capital are perfect to soak in the divine energy of this auspicious day.
Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan
Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) is set to celebrate Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav 2024 with grandeur and a focus on contemporary societal issues. This year’s theme, “Darshan Itihaas Ka, Parivartan Aaj Ka” (Recalling the Values of the Past & Transforming the Present), aims to address pressing challenges such as violence against women, religious animosity, and environmental degradation through the lens of Lord Krishna’s teachings. The event, scheduled for August 25th and 26th at the DDA Ground in Dwarka, New Delhi, will feature traditional Vedic chants, dramatic performances inspired by Lord Krishna’s life, and symbolic activities like the Matki-Fod Leela, led by prominent figures including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker. The breaking of matkis will represent a collective stand against social ills, while the centerpiece of the celebration, a technologically advanced 3D model of Govardhan Mountain, will symbolize environmental conservation. Attendees will actively participate by placing laathis into the model, each representing a personal pledge to protect the environment. With an expected attendance of 40,000-50,000 devotees, the event promises to be a spiritually and socially enriching experience, enhanced by cutting-edge VFX and 3D projections. The Mahotsav will be webcast live on the DJJS YouTube channel, extending its reach to a global audience, ensuring that the messages of peace, unity, and social responsibility resonate far and wide.
Sri Sri Radha Girdhar Gopal Temple, Chandni Chowk
Tucked away in the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk, the Banke Bihari Temple is a hidden treasure for Janmashtami celebrations. Renowned for its simplicity and traditional devotion, this temple provides an intimate, less commercialized experience. Now under the care of ISKCON Dwarka, the temple resonates with the unified chants of mantras and devotional songs, creating a spiritually vibrant atmosphere. Adorned with flowers and lights, the temple’s decor adds to its charm, and the distribution of prasad is an experience not to be missed.
Birla Mandir (Laxmi Narayan Temple), Connaught Place
Birla Mandir, one of Delhi’s most iconic temples, is a hub for Janmashtami celebrations. Devotees flock here for the day-long festivities that include bhajans, kirtans, and a beautifully adorned idol of Lord Krishna. The temple is decorated with flowers and lights, creating a serene and divine ambiance. The midnight celebration, when Krishna is believed to have been born, is particularly special, with aarti and the distribution of prasad.
ISKCON Temple, East of Kailash
ISKCON Temple in East of Kailash is a prime destination for Janmashtami celebrations in Delhi. Known for its grand scale festivities, the temple hosts elaborate rituals, devotional singing, and a mesmerizing abhishek (ceremonial bathing) of Lord Krishna’s idol. The highlight is the midnight aarti, marking Krishna’s birth with intense devotion and joy. The temple also organizes cultural programs, including classical dance and drama performances depicting Krishna’s life.
Chhatarpur Temple, South Delhi
Chhatarpur Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, is another magnificent place to celebrate Janmashtami. The temple’s sprawling grounds are decorated elaborately, and the celebrations here are marked by grand aartis, bhajans, and cultural performances. The highlight is the spectacular tableau (jhanki) depicting scenes from Lord Krishna’s life. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the birth of Lord Krishna at midnight, followed by the distribution of prasad.
Akshardham Temple, Noida Mor
Akshardham Temple is not just a marvel of architecture but also a vibrant center for Janmashtami celebrations. The temple organizes special events for the occasion, including devotional music, dance performances, and discourses on Lord Krishna’s teachings. The temple is illuminated beautifully, and the serene ambiance adds to the spiritual experience. The highlight of the celebration is the grand abhishek ceremony and the midnight aarti, which draws thousands of devotees.
