Janmashtami is one of the most auspicious and joyous festivals in India, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is observed on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.
Ranikhet is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 1,869 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. Ranikhet is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world for its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage.
Ranikhet celebrates Janmashtami with great fervor and enthusiasm, following unique traditions and festivities that reflect the local culture and history. If you are planning to visit Ranikhet during Janmashtami 2023, here are some ways to experience the divine festival of Krishna’s birth in this enchanting hill station.
Witness the Jhanki procession
One of the main attractions of Janmashtami in Ranikhet is the Jhanki procession, which is a colorful and lively parade of floats depicting various scenes from the life and legends of Lord Krishna. The Jhanki procession starts from the Haidakhan Temple and passes through the main market and roads of Ranikhet, attracting thousands of spectators who join in the celebration.
The Jhanki procession is preceded by a display of Jhankis at various temples and homes in Ranikhet for two to three nights. The Jhankis are decorated with flowers, lights, and props, and some of them also have live actors playing the roles of Krishna and his companions. The Jhankis are accompanied by music, dance, and chants of “Hare Krishna Hare Rama”.
The Jhanki procession is a way of expressing devotion and gratitude to Lord Krishna, as well as showcasing the artistic and creative talents of the local people. The Jhanki procession is also a symbol of unity and harmony among different communities and faiths, as people from different backgrounds participate in it with mutual respect and cooperation.
Attend the Mela at Jhula Devi Temple
One of the most popular places to visit in Ranikhet during Janmashtami is the Jhula Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is located about 7 km from Ranikhet town and is surrounded by lush green forests. The temple has the unique feature of having hundreds of bells hanging from its walls and roof, which are offered by devotees as a sign of their wishes being fulfilled.
The Jhula Devi Temple organizes a two-day Mela or fair during Janmashtami, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors from nearby areas. The Mela offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as food stalls, games, rides, shops, and cultural shows. It also features a special puja and aarti for Lord Krishna, as well as a grand fireworks display at night.
The Mela at Jhula Devi Temple is a great way to experience the festive spirit and the local culture of Ranikhet. It is also a place where you can seek the blessings of Goddess Durga and Lord Krishna.
Know more about Jhula Devi Temple Here
Participate in the Dahi Handi competition
Another exciting event that takes place in Ranikhet during Janmashtami is the Dahi Handi competition, which is a traditional sport that involves forming human pyramids to break a pot of curd hung high above the ground. The Dahi Handi competition is inspired by the childhood antics of Lord Krishna, who used to steal butter and curd from the houses of his neighbors along with his friends.
The Dahi Handi competition is held at various locations in Ranikhet, such as schools, colleges, playgrounds, and public places. The participants are divided into teams, each consisting of several members who climb on top of each other to reach the pot. The team that breaks the pot first wins a prize and gets to enjoy the curd. The Dahi Handi competition is a fun-filled activity that tests the strength, balance, coordination, and teamwork skills of the participants. It also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among them.
Enjoy the cultural programs
Ranikhet also hosts various cultural programs during Janmashtami, such as music concerts, dance performances, drama shows, and puppet shows. These programs are based on themes related to Lord Krishna’s life and teachings, such as his love for Radha, his role in the Mahabharata war, his message in the Bhagavad Gita, and his miracles and leelas. The cultural programs are performed by local artists and renowned artists from other parts of India. They showcase the rich diversity and heritage of Indian culture and art forms.
The cultural programs are a source of entertainment and enlightenment for both locals and tourists alike. They also provide an opportunity to learn more about Lord Krishna’s personality and philosophy. The cultural programs are held at various venues in Ranikhet, such as auditoriums, community halls, parks, and temples.
Pray to Lord Krishna
The most important and sacred part of Janmashtami in Ranikhet is to pray to Lord Krishna and seek his blessings and protection. The devotees observe a fast throughout the day and break it after the midnight puja. The devotees also dress up in new clothes and adorn themselves with jewelry and accessories. They also decorate their homes and temples with flowers, lights, and rangolis.
The devotees offer prayers, flowers, fruits, sweets, and other items to Lord Krishna. They also sing bhajans, kirtans, aartis, and mantras that praise and glorify Lord Krishna. They also read and listen to the stories and teachings of Lord Krishna from the scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Srimad Bhagavatam, and the Mahabharata.
The devotees experience a sense of joy and peace in their hearts, as they feel the presence and grace of Lord Krishna. They also express their love and devotion to Lord Krishna, as well as their gratitude for his gifts and guidance.
Conclusion
Janmashtami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the supreme personality of Godhead, who descended on earth to protect the righteous and destroy the evil. Janmashtami is also a festival that celebrates the spirit of love, joy, and devotion that Lord Krishna embodies and inspires.
Ranikhet is a hill station that offers a perfect setting for celebrating Janmashtami, as it combines the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual aura of Uttarakhand. It is a place where you can witness the unique traditions and festivities of Janmashtami, such as the Jhanki procession, the Dahi Handi competition, the cultural programs, and the Mela at Jhula Devi Temple. Ranikhet is also a place where you can pray to Lord Krishna and seek his blessings and protection.
If you are looking for a memorable and meaningful way to celebrate Janmashtami 2023, then you should definitely plan a trip to Ranikhet, Uttarakhand. You will not only enjoy the scenic splendor and hospitality of Ranikhet but also enrich your soul with the divine festival of Krishna’s birth.