Over 6,000 guests and devotees attended the auspicious Janmashtami celebration at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Vishupads and kirtans honoring Shri Krishna's life were sung, and a brief oration on how one may truly surrender to Bhagwan's will and imbibe peace and righteousness in one's life was delivered. To celebrate the birth of Shri Krishna, a beautiful swing decorated with peacock feathers was placed at the center of the assembly. Puja and arti were performed and the celebratory ‘Nand Gher Anand Bhayo’ kirtan commemorating Shri Krishna's birth was sung.
Then, the thousands of attendees came forward in turn to swing the Lord in the hindolo. As they advanced, groups of devotees took turns in 45-minute slots to sing celebratory devotional bhajans. Small children also performed a dance remembering Shri Krishna's childhood incidents.
Before departing, attendees were also able participate in a special puja to sanctify a brick, which they then personally carried and placed on the five-meter-height plinth of the upcoming BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Kamal Naidu, a prominent community leader, expressed, “Words cannot describe this gratifying experience. Since stepping foot on site, I felt the ecstasy and love from the selfless service of the volunteers. Thank you BAPS Hindu Mandir for welcoming us from all walks of life for this joyous and spiritual experience.”
Mohan Bhagwat, a prominent business leader, shared, “BAPS Hindu Mandir organized the event beautifully and the atmosphere was electric. While reminiscing on the values of Krishna Bhagwan’s life, we were reminded to live a spiritually centric life.”