Temples across the metropolis were decorated with flowers and colourful lights as devotees arrived for early-morning rituals. At the ISKCON temple at Girgaon, celebrations began with a grand Mangala Aarti, drawing a steady stream of devotees.
Janmashtami, also known as Krishnashtami, commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, regarded as the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Devotees traditionally observe the festival with fasting, prayers and devotional programmes, with the birth of Krishna celebrated at midnight.
Spiritual leader Keshav Chandra Das, extending his greetings to devotees, described Janmashtami as a deeply auspicious occasion. Speaking to PTI Videos, he recalled the significance of Krishna's birth and his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita.
Dahi Handi preparations gather pace
While temples remained crowded on Friday, Mumbai was also preparing for Saturday's Dahi Handi celebrations. The popular festival will see teams of Govindas forming human pyramids to reach and break earthen pots filled with curd and milk, suspended at considerable heights at various locations.
The celebrations are expected to attract large crowds, with political leaders and organisations hosting events across the city. Govinda teams will compete for trophies and cash prizes, adding a competitive element to the festivities.
Celebrities are also expected to participate in or attend several prominent Dahi Handi programmes, further increasing public interest around the events.
Security and traffic arrangements
With thousands of people expected to gather at major venues, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and Mumbai Police have put elaborate arrangements in place for Saturday's celebrations.
Security measures and traffic diversions have been planned at key locations to manage the anticipated crowds and ensure the smooth conduct of Dahi Handi events.
The festive atmosphere was already visible in residential societies across Mumbai on Friday, where adults and children participated in traditional cultural performances ahead of household pujas scheduled to begin around midnight.
With temple celebrations underway and preparations for Dahi Handi nearing completion, Mumbai is set for a weekend marked by devotional programmes, cultural performances and large public gatherings.
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