Also known as Govinda, Krishna Janmashtami commemorates the birthday of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The highlight of the festival involves young males forming a human pyramid and climbing on top of each other to reach a pot of curd.
The actual celebration of Janmashtami takes place during the midnight as Sri Krishna is believed to be born on a dark, stormy and windy night to end the rule and violence of his unlce, Kansa. All over India this day is celebrated with devotional songs and dances, pujas, artis, blowing of the Conch and rocking the cradle of baby Sri Krishna.
The Janmashtami celebration of Mathura and Vrindavan, the places where Lord Krishna had spent his lif, are very special. On this day temples and homes are wonderfully decorated and illuminated. Night long prayers are offered and religious mantras are sung in the temples.