Janmashtami brings colour, devotion across country

Janmashtami, one of the major religious festivals of Sanatan Dharma followers, was celebrated across the country on Friday with colourful processions, religious rituals, discussions and cultural programmes, marking the 5,252nd appearance of Lord Krishna.

According to Hindu belief, Lord Krishna appeared to destroy injustice, untruth and evil and establish justice and welfare. The festival is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha of Bhadra month according to the Hindu calendar.

A colourful procession began from Dhakeshwari National Temple at around 3pm, drawing men, women and children in traditional attire. Many participants wore saris, punjabis and dhoti-punjabis, while children and teenagers appeared dressed as Krishna, Radha and other mythological characters.

Amid banners, festoons and placards, devotees chanted the names of Krishna and joined bhajans and kirtans accompanied by drums, kansars, cymbals and other musical instruments.

The procession passed through Palashi Bazar, Jagannath Hall, Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, the High Court, Bangabazar, Dhaka South City Corporation Bhaban, Golap Shah Mazar and Gulistan before crossing Nawabpur Road and Roy Saheb Bazar intersection and ending at Bahadur Shah Park.

Leaders of the National Puja Celebration Committee, religious leaders and representatives of various temple management committees took part in the procession.

Similar programmes were held in different districts.