Children dressed as lord Krishna try to break the ‘utti’ at ISKCON temple as part of the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations in Visakhapatnam on Friday.
| Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK
Sri Krishna Janmashtami was celebrated with devotion and grandeur at temples and other venues across the city on Friday (September 4, 2026), with devotees participating in special prayers, abhishekams, cultural programmes and traditional festivities.At the ISKCON temple, the celebrations commenced at 4 a.m. with Mangala Harati and darshan. Devotees participated in congregational chanting of the Holy Names. Temple president Samba Prabhuji delivered a discourse on the divine pastimes of Lord Krishna.The celebrations featured 24-hour Akhanda Harinama Sankirtana, ceremonial baths (abhishekam) for the deities, and cultural competitions, including dance performances and fancy dress contests for children. MP M. Sribharat, along with other public representatives and government officials, attended the celebrations and offered prayers.The traditional Utlotsavam, or pot-breaking ceremony, was held in the evening with enthusiastic participation from children. A special drone show was also organised, enthralling the gathering. Hundreds of devotees visited the temple throughout the day to seek blessings and receive Teertha Prasadam.Meanwhile, at Hare Krishna Vaikuntham in Gambheeram, the celebrations were organised by Hare Krishna Movement, with the Pratah Abhishekam of Sri Krishna. The ceremony was performed with sacred waters collected from the seven holy rivers along with fruit juices and flowers, amidst vedic chants, devotional singing and Sankirtana.President of the Hare Krishna Movement Dr. Nishkarshana Bhakta Dasa explained the spiritual significance of Janmashtami to the devotees. Hare Krishna Movement also organised celebrations at Gadiraju Palace near Lawsons Bay Colony. Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore participated in the festivities, which commenced with Jhula Seva to Bala Gopala.A special Hare Nama Japa Mandapam with 108 planks was arranged for devotees. Musical and cultural performances by renowned artists were organised as part of the celebrations. A grand maha abhishekam was performed with sacred waters.Many educational institutions across the city also organised Janmastami celebrations. Children dressed up as Sri Krishna and Utlotsavams were highlights of the celebrations.Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan celebrated Janmashtami with great devotion and enthusiasm. The celebration aimed to acquaint students with the timeless values and teachings of Lord Krishna while fostering an appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage.The cultural programme featured vibrant dance performances depicting significant episodes and values associated with the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. Addressing the gathering, Director, Ch. Vasu Prakash, shared inspiring thoughts on the significance of Lord Krishna’s teachings. Published - September 04, 2026 11:56 pm IST
