A lively tapestry of vibrant music, colors, and devotion unfolded at ISKCON temple in Houston. On a warm evening, over 10,000 enthusiastic devotees gathered to celebrate Janmashtami, the divine appearance of the Supreme Lord, Krishna.
“It was a really a magnificent event,” said Sarang Thakur Dasa, ISKCON Temple President. “We had record breaking attendance. Even during our morning hours, we had almost 1,500 visitors come through to take darshan.
On Janmashtami, devotees fast, offer prayers, recite scripture, and chant devotional hymns to deepen their connection with the Lord. Through these traditions, they come together to celebrate Krishna’s supremely auspicious advent. Krishna, beautifully bluish–black in complexion, appeared about 5,000 years ago in Mathura, India. His name, Krishna, means “all-attractive” because He possesses all opulence – beauty, fame, wealth, strength, renunciation, and knowledge– to an unlimited degree. He eradicated evil and performed unparalleled pastimes for His devotees’ pleasure. Krishna’s teachings provided a guideline for people to reawaken their loving relationship with Him and transcend the difficulties of this material world through devotional service.
Hindus of Greater Houston partnered with ISKCON of Houston, with preparations beginning well in advance. Over 300 volunteers were engaged in various services for over 5,000 hours, from designing decorations and planning cultural performances to cooking and arranging shuttle services. Their efforts ensured a smooth evening celebration, as they were present at every step to welcome visitors. Festivities began at 6 p.m. on August 16th with people being welcomed to the temple grounds with tilak, a mark made on the forehead using sandalwood paste. At the entrance, the sankirtan team continuously performed congregational chanting of the Lord’s holy names for hours. They were accompanied by traditional instruments such as kartals and mrdanga. Wholehearted singing of the Hare Krishna mantra, which relieves the mind and cleanses the heart, along with ecstatic dancing established a spiritually elevated mood for the entire evening. “The best way to celebrate is by chanting Krishna’s holy name and dancing, so that’s what we are doing,” said Madhav Charan Dasa. “We are chanting the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra, which was introduced by Chaitanya Maha Prabhu.”
The path was aligned with several vendors serving refreshing drinks and delicious snacks like lassi and samosas. Additionally, a vegetarian feast of sanctified food was being served at all times. Devotees were also sharing books with newcomers to inspire them through the ancient wisdom of bhakti yoga. Inside the temple room, the evening came alive as prayers and homemade dishes were being offered to the exquisitely gorgeous deities on the ornate teakwood, flower-filled altar. They were dressed in radiant blue outfits, decorated intricately with colorful face paintings, and adorned with handmade rose garlands. The temple room was radiating with energy at every moment through kirtan, spiritual discussions, and abhishek (bathing of the deities with auspicious substances).
Inside the Gauranga Hall, the Hindus of Greater Houston coordinated a children’s costume contest with 125 participants. Parents brought their children to the stage dressed as Krishna and other aspects of His pastimes. After careful consideration, the panel of judges awarded trophies to the best costumes in each age group. Beyond the entrance grounds and the temple room, the festivities extended to the temple gardens and the Gauranga Hall. Light and Sound Show – KRSNA. The spiritual Disney-like 5D live drama gave everyone the chance to experience the magical night of Krishna’s birth. Devotees worked in teams such as tech, art, and drama in preparation for the show.
The festival was honored by the presence of Consul General of India, several State of Texas, Harris County, Fort Bend County and City of Houston dignitaries. Amongst these officials were Consul General of India, Mr. DC Manjunath, Chancellor & Principal Dr. Renu Khator, Houston Police Chief Mr. J. Noe Diaz, Representative from Harris County Judge Hidalgo’s office, Fort Bend County Judge K. P. George, Fort Bend County Commissioner Mr. Andy Myers, Fort Bend County Commissioner Mr. Dexter McCoy, Representative from Harris County Precint 4 Commissioner, Fulshear City Council Member Mr. Abhijeet Utturkar, Sugar Land Council Member Mr. Sanjay Singhal, Associate Judge Fort Bend County Ms. Stuti Patel, Houston Council Member Aide, State Senator Aide. Harris County Judge and Fort Bend County Commissioner’s office staff delivered proclamations.
“It was outstanding,” said Commissioner Meyers. “I was so honored and privileged to be part of this. Certainly, going to do it again next year.”
“It is a very special invitation for us,” said Chief Diaz. “This is my second time coming to the temper. For me, it’s about understanding, being part of the community, and learning from the community and just sharing the kindness back and forth. And I’m always looking to meet new people.” Special guests participated in offering Aarti to the Deities and enjoy dinner at Govinda’s.
The highlight of the celebration occurred at midnight, the exact time of Krishna’s birth. Almost 1,000 devotees gathered in the packed, dimly lit temple room and were singing enthusiastically with great anticipation. The moment the clock struck midnight; the curtains parted to reveal the deities. Joyous singing continued as the maha aarti– welcoming and worship of the Deities involving items like effulgent oil lamps and flowers– was performed on the altar. As the annual festival ended, the air was filled with a sense of peace and spiritual rejuvenation. The celebration had brought the community closer, uniting thousands in a shared expression of devotion, faith, and service that would last long after the night was over.
For more information about similar upcoming events fostering community and deepening spirituality at the ISKCON of Houston, visit the temple’s website at www.iskconhouston.org. Visit Hindus of Greater Houston site https://www.hindusofhouston.org/
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Sent from ISKCON of Houston Communications