Nandotsav is a grand celebration of birth of Lord Krishna celebrated a day after Krishna Janamashtami.
Namaste!
Welcome to the oasis of delightful readings at www.onindianpath.com. Nandotsav, a grand celebration, is a must-see event for every follower of Hinduism and anyone who loves the culture.
Introduction
Hinduism is the oldest religion still practiced today. Its principles, values and righteousness have guided us in every aspect of life. Throughout history, there have been many incarnations of Lord Vishnu to impart various life lessons. One of these is Lord Krishna, the tenth avatar of the Hindu god Shri Hari Vishnu.
In this blog, we will shed light on Nandotsav, a significant celebration that marks the birth of this divine majesty, Lord Krishna.
What is Nandotsav?
According to the Bhagwad Purana, Lord Krishna was the eighth child of the imprisoned King Vasudev and his wife Devaki. Vasudev carried the newborn Krishna in a basket over his head, crossed the river Yamuna, and placed him beside the sleeping Yashoda.
Meanwhile, Vasudev took Yashoda’s daughter, Yogmaya with him. Additionally, he returned to the prison. Eventually, the cruel Kansa learned about the birth of the child and sought to kill Devaki’s eighth child. The moment he snatched the baby from Devaki’s lap, Goddess Yogmaya rose into the air and declared, “As you have touched my feet, I spare you from death. However, your end by the divine being is certain.”
Soon after, everyone in Gokul heard the joyful news of Lord Krishna’s birth. Nandbaba, the foster father of Lord Krishna, then announced grand celebrations to mark the occasion.
Thus, Nandotsav is celebrated just after Krishna Janmashtami.
Apparently, Navami of Bhadrpada mas is also celebrated as Goga Navami.
When is Nandotsav 2025?
According to the Hindu Panchang, Nandotsav falls on the Navami of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrpada. This year, the fun-filled, playful, and enriching celebrations are set to take place on August 17, 2025. We will also explore the rituals associated with Nandotsav on this special day.
Rituals of Nandotsav
Especially in temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, like Shri Bankey Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temples, there are grand celebrations with elaborate ceremonies.
a) Generally, temple premises are adorned with flowers, balloons, and glittering decorations. The idol is also beautifully adorned with freshly plucked flowers. This look with a stunning poshak, sparkling jewelry, a mukut, and much more is definitely a lifetime darshana.
Do you know the about shringaar of Lord Krishna? Your answer is hidden in my blog on Krishna Shringaar.
b) Lord Krishna is bathe by priests with Panchamrit and later it is distributed to devotees as Prasad.
b) To share the divine charm, priests and devotees distribute sweets, fruits, clothes, toys, utensils, and coins, spreading joy and blessings as part of the celebration in the temple premises.
c) Devotional songs celebrating Nand Baba on the birth of Krishna are sung in chorus. The atmosphere is so filled with joy that it feels as though Krishna is born today. In this scenerio, people dance with joy, congratulating each other.
d) The enormous festivities continue until the Rajbhog Aarti.
Conclusion
Nandotsav is a vibrant and joyous celebration that captures the essence of devotion and community. Marking the birth of Lord Krishna, this festival is filled with music, dance, and rituals that bring people together in a shared expression of faith and happiness.
Jai Shree Radhey
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