Krishna Janmashtami

**Krishna Janmashtami** is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Krishna is one of the most revered and beloved deities in Hinduism, known for his divine playfulness, wisdom, and role in the epic Mahabharata. The festival is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm across India and by Hindus around the world.

### **Date and Time**

- **Date**: Krishna Janmashtami usually falls in August or September, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada.

- **2024 Date**: The festival will be observed on **August 26, 2024**.

- **Time**: Celebrations begin at midnight, believed to be the hour of Krishna's birth.

### **History and Significance**

- **Birth of Krishna**: Krishna was born in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva. His birth is celebrated as Janmashtami, marking the moment when good triumphed over evil, as Krishna was born to end the tyranny of his uncle, King Kansa.

- **Cultural Significance**: Krishna's teachings, especially those in the Bhagavad Gita, are central to Hindu philosophy. Janmashtami is a time to reflect on his divine teachings and celebrate his life and leelas (divine plays).

- **Devotional Practices**: Devotees fast, chant mantras, and sing bhajans (devotional songs) in praise of Krishna. Temples are decorated, and idols of baby Krishna are bathed, adorned with new clothes, and placed in cradles, symbolizing his birth.

### **Observance and Celebrations**

- **Fasting**: Devotees often observe a day-long fast, breaking it only at midnight, the time of Krishna's birth. Some fast by consuming only fruits and milk, while others may have a more stringent fast without food or water.

- **Midnight Celebrations**: Temples and homes are adorned with flowers and lights. At midnight, devotees perform aarti (a ceremonial worship), sing devotional songs, and offer sweets like butter and curd, which are believed to be Krishna's favorite.

- **Dahi Handi**: In Maharashtra and parts of North India, the festival includes the Dahi Handi ceremony, where teams of young men form human pyramids to break a pot of curd hung high above the ground, symbolizing Krishna's playful stealing of butter.

- **Ras Lila**: In parts of North India, especially in Vrindavan and Mathura, the festival is marked by the performance of Ras Lila, a dramatic reenactment of Krishna's youthful exploits with the gopis (cowherd girls).

### **Important Points**

- **Spiritual Reflection**: The festival is not just about celebration but also about reflecting on the teachings of Krishna, particularly his message of dharma (duty), devotion, and the pursuit of righteousness.

- **Unity and Devotion**: Krishna Janmashtami brings together people from all walks of life, united in their devotion to Krishna, celebrating his birth with joy and spiritual fervor.

### **Wishing**

- "May Lord Krishna's blessings bring you joy, peace, and prosperity on this auspicious occasion of Janmashtami. Happy Krishna Janmashtami!"

- "On this divine day of Janmashtami, may Krishna’s love and wisdom fill your life with happiness and grace. Jai Shri Krishna!"

### **FAQs**

- **Why is Krishna Janmashtami celebrated?**

  - Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is believed to have incarnated to restore dharma and guide humanity with his divine wisdom.

- **How do people celebrate Krishna Janmashtami?**

  - People celebrate by fasting, singing devotional songs, visiting temples, participating in Dahi Handi, and engaging in prayers and rituals at midnight.

### **Timeline**

- **Mathura**: Krishna's birthplace, Mathura, is the focal point of Janmashtami celebrations, with grand festivities, temple rituals, and processions.

- **Vrindavan**: The place where Krishna spent his childhood is also known for its elaborate Ras Lila performances and temple celebrations during Janmashtami.

Krishna Janmashtami is a vibrant and deeply spiritual festival that connects millions of devotees to the divine life and teachings of Lord Krishna, inspiring them to live with love, righteousness, and devotion.

National Park Service Founders Day

**National Park Service Founders Day** is celebrated annually on **August 25th** to commemorate the establishment of the National Park Service (NPS) in the United States. This day honors the creation of the agency that manages and protects America’s national parks, monuments, and other natural and historical sites.

### **About National Park Service Founders Day**

- **Purpose**: The day celebrates the founding of the National Park Service and its ongoing mission to preserve the natural and cultural resources of the United States for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations.

- **Origins**: The National Park Service was established on August 25, 1916, by the Organic Act, signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson. This act created the agency within the Department of the Interior to manage the growing number of national parks and monuments.

### **Significance**

- **Preservation of Natural Heritage**: The NPS plays a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty, ecosystems, and biodiversity of the United States. National Park Service Founders Day is a time to appreciate the efforts made to maintain these treasures for public enjoyment and education.

- **Cultural and Historical Conservation**: Beyond natural landscapes, the NPS also protects historic sites, cultural landmarks, and monuments that tell the story of America’s past. This day acknowledges the importance of conserving these sites for future generations.

- **Public Enjoyment and Education**: The NPS provides opportunities for recreation, learning, and inspiration. Founders Day is a reminder of the value that national parks and historic sites bring to people of all ages, offering spaces for adventure, reflection, and discovery.

### **Observance and Activities**

- **Visit a National Park**: One of the best ways to celebrate National Park Service Founders Day is by visiting a national park or historic site. Many parks offer special events, ranger-led programs, and free admission on this day.

- **Educational Programs**: Some parks and museums may host talks, tours, and activities that highlight the history and mission of the National Park Service.

- **Volunteering**: The day is also a great opportunity to volunteer at a national park or participate in conservation activities, helping to preserve these sites for future generations.

- **Social Media and Awareness**: People can share their experiences and love for national parks on social media, using hashtags like #NPSFoundersDay and #FindYourPark to spread awareness about the importance of the National Park Service.

### **Important Points**

- **The NPS Legacy**: Since its founding in 1916, the National Park Service has grown to oversee more than 400 sites, including national parks, monuments, battlefields, seashores, trails, and more.

- **Conservation and Stewardship**: The NPS is dedicated to the conservation of the nation's natural and cultural resources, ensuring that these treasures are protected and accessible for everyone.

- **Public Engagement**: The NPS encourages public engagement through educational programs, recreational opportunities, and community involvement, fostering a deep connection between people and the parks.

### **Fun Facts**

- **Yellowstone National Park**: Established in 1872, Yellowstone was the first national park in the United States and the world.

- **Ranger Programs**: The NPS offers a wide range of ranger-led programs that include guided hikes, wildlife talks, historical reenactments, and more, enhancing visitors' understanding of the parks.

- **Junior Ranger Program**: This program allows children to engage in fun, educational activities at national parks, earning badges and certificates for their efforts.

### **Wishing**

- "Happy National Park Service Founders Day! Let’s celebrate the beauty and history preserved by the NPS and take time to enjoy the great outdoors."

- "On this special day, we honor the legacy of the National Park Service and the breathtaking landscapes it protects. Enjoy the parks and protect them for future generations!"

### **FAQs**

- **When is National Park Service Founders Day celebrated?**

  - National Park Service Founders Day is celebrated on August 25th each year.

- **Why is this day significant?**

  - The day marks the founding of the National Park Service and highlights its ongoing mission to preserve America's natural and cultural resources for public enjoyment and education.

National Park Service Founders Day is a time to reflect on the importance of conservation, enjoy the natural beauty of national parks, and appreciate the efforts made to protect these precious resources for future generations.