Janmashtami, the birth celebration of Bhagwan Shri Krishna, was celebrated with great excitement and devotion by Mahila Mandals at BAPS Mandirs across North America in August 2012. Depicting the theme, “Tumhi Ho Bandhu, Sakha Tumhi Ho”, the BAPS North America Yuvati Mandal organized an enchanting and inspiring cultural program. Highlighting Shri Krishna’s loyalty towards his childhood friends as well as His helpful and loving nature, the celebration helped today’s youth understand the true meaning of friendship and particularly the role of spirituality in their lives.
The celebration started with an attention-gripping scenario of Shri Krishna’s birth in Mathura on a dark, stormy night. The speeches that followed explained how friendship is an essential part of life. The skits depicted Shri Krishna’s friendship with Sudama, as well as His innocent love and friendship with Gopis. Highlighting the importance of ones friendship with God, everybody left inspired.
A grand dance performed by the Balikas and Kishoris concluded the joyous celebration. At the end of the program, the arti was performed followed by kirtans, as Shri Krishna was cradled in a beautifully decorated swing, charging the atmosphere with devotion and divinity. The program commenced with video blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. He continually encourages and inspires programs such as these that benefit the performers and the audience alike.