Mathura, Uttar Pradesh – Mathura is alive with devotion as it celebrates Lord Krishna’s 5252nd birth anniversary, or Janmashtami, today. The Braj region, including Vrindavan, Barsana, and Gokul, is beautifully decorated, with temples glowing under colorful lights and flowers. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will join the celebrations, making this year’s festival even more special.
The Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the heart of the festivities. Its inner sanctum is adorned with 221 kilograms of silver, and Lord Krishna will wear a dazzling “Meghdhanu” outfit in rainbow colors, crafted with silk, gold thread, and gemstones over six months. On August 15 evening, a grand procession offered this attire to Krishna under the theme “Operation Sindoor,” with sindoor-colored floral decorations symbolizing devotion and pride. Over 50 lakh devotees are expected to visit Mathura and nearby holy sites during the three-day holiday, including Independence Day and a Sunday. Security is tight, with 3,000 police officers across eight zones and 37 sectors.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to attend the Janmashtami event in Mathura, honoring revered saints and devotees. He announced the launch and foundation-laying of 118 development projects worth ₹645 crore, aimed at making life in Mathura easier, happier, and more prosperous. These projects focus on improving infrastructure, tourism, and local facilities, aligning with the state’s push for all-around growth. His presence adds a spark to the celebrations, blending spirituality with progress.
The temple’s schedule is packed. The day begins with Mangla Aarti at 5:30 AM, followed by Panchamrit Abhishek at 8:00 AM. The midnight Janmabhishek, from 11:00 PM to 12:10 AM, includes Ganpati puja and a grand aarti. Devotees enter through Govind Dwar (Gate 3) and exit via the main gate, leaving phones and sharp objects behind for safety. In Vrindavan, Banke Bihari Temple’s rare Mangla Aarti will draw 500 lucky devotees, while Radha Raman Temple hosts Raslila performances. The Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad has organized 1,000 folk artists across 26 stages for vibrant Krishna Leela shows.
Mathura’s streets are freshly painted, and shops brim with Krishna’s favorite sweets like peda and makhan-mishri. Live broadcasts on different platforms will bring the rituals to those who can’t attend. Temple officials are urging devotees to celebrate with unity and respect for traditional values, making this Janmashtami a blend of faith and community spirit.
With CM Yogi’s development announcements, Mathura is not just celebrating Krishna’s birth but also stepping toward a brighter future. These projects will enhance the city’s appeal for pilgrims and locals alike, ensuring progress of the Braj regions. As devotees sing bhajans and join processions, the festival promises to be a heartfelt tribute to Krishna’s teachings, now paired with a vision for growth.
