Asrayanitai: Every year the International Society for Krishna Conciousness in New Zealand welcomes thousands of devotees to the beautiful Sri Sri Radha Giridhari Mandir in Kumue, Auckland to celebrate Sri Krishna Janmastami, known as one of the oldest and famous festivals for Hindus all over the world.
Janmastami this year will be celebrated on September 4th , Tuesday from 6 pm onwards. The Mandir has organized various activities for the pleasure of devotees throughout the day. There will be special darshan, auspicious bathing ceremony ‘abhiseka’, offerings, aratis, including the special midnight candle arati, bhajans, cultural dances and drama. Devotees and guest will also be treated to a free sumptuous vegetarian Hare Krsna feast.
In addition to the celebration on the 4th, Sri Sri Radha Giridhari Mandir is pleased to extend the Janmastami celebration to the weekend at the city to allow more Aucklanders to participate and enjoy the festivity through a special musical concert – Festival of Krishna. Scheduled on September 8th, Saturday at 5 pm at the Dorothy Winston Centre, this concert will showcase an array of songs, dance and music performances by a host of international and local artists.
The main artist featured in this concert is the famous Karnamrita dasi, a world-renowned performer of the ancient Vedic chant practices of Bhajan and Kirtan. Dasi’s first album: Prayers by Women was recently awarded Best Song and Best Album at the JPF Music Award Festival in Los Angeles .
Alongside Karnamrita, there will be performances by Dr Chintamani Ruth; an extremely talented violinist, dancers from Anuradha’s School of Indian Dances; and Basanth Mahdur and students from Sargam School of Indian Music. The Auckland devotees, led by Divya Govinda das will be also be performing in this program.
Tickets for this concert are prices at an inexpensive $20. We look forward to welcoming you and your family in joining the celebration of this wonderful event.