August 26 marks the 5251st birthday of Lord Krishna. (Image: Shutterstock)
Whether you are looking for a spiritual immersion or a cultural experience, these five temples and sites in the capital are perfect for soaking in the divine energy of this auspicious day.
As Janmashtami 2024 approaches, Delhi is gearing up to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna with vibrant festivities. Whether you are looking for a 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.
Sri Sri Radha Girdhar Gopal Temple, Chandni Chowk
Tucked away in the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, Banke Bihari Temple is a hidden treasure for Janmashtami celebrations. Famous for its simplicity and traditional devotion, this temple offers an intimate and less commercialized experience. Currently, 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 décor adds to its charm, and the distribution of prasad is an experience not to be missed.
Birla Temple (Laxmi Narayan Temple), Connaught Place
Birla Mandir, one of Delhi's most iconic temples, is the centre of Janmashtami celebrations. Devotees flock here for day-long festivities that include bhajans, kirtans and a beautifully adorned statue of Lord Krishna. The temple is decorated with flowers and lights, creating a serene and divine atmosphere. The midnight celebration, when Krishna is believed to have been born, is particularly special, with aarti and distribution of prasad.
ISKCON Temple, East of Kailash
The ISKCON temple, east of Kailash, is a prime destination for Janmashtami celebrations in Delhi. Known for its large-scale festivities, the temple hosts elaborate rituals, devotional chanting, and a mesmerizing abhishek (ceremonial bathing) of the idol of Lord Krishna. The highlight is the midnight aarti, which marks the birth of Krishna with intense devotion and joy. The temple also organizes cultural programs, including classical dance and drama performances depicting the life of Krishna.
Chhatarpur Temple, South Delhi
Chhatarpur Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, is another magnificent place to celebrate Janmashtami. The sprawling temple grounds are elaborately decorated and the celebrations are marked by grand aartis, bhajans and cultural performances. The highlight is the spectacular tableau (jhanki) depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the birth of Lord Krishna at midnight, followed by the distribution of prasad.
Akshardham Temple, Noida Mor
The Akshardham Temple is not just an architectural marvel but also a vibrant centre for Janmashtami celebrations. The temple organises special events for the occasion, including devotional music, dance performances and discourses on the teachings of Lord Krishna. The temple is beautifully illuminated and the serene ambiance adds to the spiritual experience. The highlight of the celebration is the grand abhishek ceremony and midnight aarti, which attracts thousands of devotees.
