The story of Krishna Janmashtami
Lord Krishna was born around 3228 BCE, and His birthday is celebrated every year as Janmashtami. But what's His birth story?
Lord Krishna's birth took place in Mathura (present day Uttar Pradesh). At the time, Mathura was ruled by an old king named Ugrasena. But his greedy son Kamsa wanted to take over the throne. So he imprisoned his father and took over the leadership.
Kamsa's sister got married to Vasudeva. When Kamsa was charioting the newlywed couple to their home, he suddenly heard a voice - "Your sister's eighth child will slay you. That will be your end".
Kamsa immediately took out his sword and was about to behead his sister.
Desperate to save her life, Vasudeva, the groom begged Kamsa. When Kamsa told him about the voice, Vasudeva offered a pact - "I will give all our newborns to you. But please spare my wife". As a result, Kamsa imprisoned his sister and brother in law.
Kamsa killed 7 of Devaki's newborns. He made sure none of her children survived.
But the 8th child was on His way...
Krishna is born
When Krishna was born, it was raining heavily and 3 miracles happened - Every prison guard fell asleep, every shackle broke and every door opened. Immediately, Vasudeva saw this as divine intervention. He picked up the child and by intuitive guidance, walked to the river Yamuna.
Vasudeva reaches Gokul
Through divine guidance, Vasudeva crossed the raging river to reach his friend Nanda and Yashoda. Yashoda had just delivered a baby girl. She had a difficult labor and was unconscious. Vasudeva replaced the girl child with Krishna. He took the girl child and came back to prison.
What happened to the little girl?
When Kamsa came forward to kill her, she turned into Goddess Durga and warned him that his killer was born. Having no other choice, Kamsa freed his sister and brother in law.
As for Krishna.. He grew up in an ordinary cow herding community, surrounded by lots of love and warmth.
Wish you all a very happy Janmashtami!
By - Cuddly Gurus - Celebrating and honoring great Hindu Icons
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