Sri Krishna Jayanthi was observed with great devotion and joy in Amritapuri, drawing thousands of devotees to celebrate the hour of His birth.
In the morning, the Ashram cows were honoured in a procession throughout Amritapuri, winning the hearts of all as they, too, voiced their happiness.
In the evening, the traditional Uriyadi game of breaking pots was played with much enthusiasm in front of the Kali Temple, as Amma lovingly watched from its steps. In a sacred moment, three Brahmani kites appeared, circling above—an auspicious sign.
Many little ones, dressed as baby Krishnas, came to Amma’s lap. She played with them and fed them butter, filling hearts with delight. And then, Ashram children performed a colourful dance performance sharing the blissful union of Radha and Krishna.
At the stroke of midnight, a tiny idol of Bala Gopala, baby Krishna, was lovingly placed before Amma. She offered butter to the Lord, marking the divine event of His birth.
After delivering her message, Amma distributed prasad to all devotees—a sweet pudding that echoed the blissfulness felt within by all.
Amma’s Message
Lord Kṛṣṇa is a vibrant presence in the spiritual and cultural sphere of the world. A life always engaged in action, a countenance ever filled with sweet grace, complete dispassion, providing guidance suitable for people in all walks of life—these are the distinctive features of his life.
The life that is full of contentment and joy, the life that leads us to the highest goal of existence—this is the way of life that Bhagavān Kṛṣṇa taught the world. May his life and message ever remain an inspiration and guiding light for us.
Bhagavān has said that whenever dharma declines, he will take avatāra (incarnation). But before dharma collapses in the outer world, it first declines in the minds of individuals.
When desires, attachments, hatred, jealousy, lust and anger arise in our hearts, then we must invite Bhagavān into our hearts to restore dharma and peace there. We must hand over the reins of our chariot—our body and mind—into his hands. Then Bhagavān will manifest within our hearts, restoring wisdom and peace.
Therefore, let us not limit Śrī Kṛṣṇajayanti to outward festivities alone—may Bhagavān’s divine avatāra take birth within our hearts. Just as Bhagavān danced in joy on the hoods of Kāliya (a snake demon), let us too dance upon our inner fears, sorrows and delusions.
Just as Kṛṣṇa broke the pots of curd, let us break the pots of our ego with the power of discernment. From the curd of spiritual practice and selfless service, let us churn the butter of love and devotion.
Like the gopīs, let us awaken supreme devotion, parābhakti, within us. May divine grace bless all my children with this.
