Janmashtami or Gokulashtami is one of the grand festivals celebrated all over India that commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is believed to be the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is to be celebrated on the 30th and 31st of August this year. This Janmashtami, you can make your Puja rituals more auspicious with floral fragrances that are Lord Krishna’s favourite. Let’s begin with understanding the essence of this festival and then explore the fragrances that will make this festival even more delightful!
The Heritage of Janmashtami
Usually celebrated in the months of August or September, Janmashtami festivities include decorating temples, singing bhajans and kirtans, reading of the Bhagavad Gita, recreating Raslila, and the traditional ceremony of Dahi Handi (breaking of Dahi-filled earthen pots on a height by forming a human pyramid symbolizing Krishna’s childhood). According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna was born to destroy Mathura’s demon King Kansa, brother of his virtuous mother, Devaki. The festival is celebrated in two parts with pomp and glory all over India. On the first day, devotees observe a day-long fast with meals comprising of fruits and water (Phallar), avoiding grains and break the fast on the next day when the Ashtami Tithi is over. Lord Krishna’s idol is placed in a cradle and then bathed in milk and honey followed by adorning it with jewelry and new clothes. The extravagant and colorful rituals of Janmashtami are made even more vibrant with the aroma of Lord Krishna’s favourite flowers – Lotus & Mogra. So, let’s explore how the sweet fragrances of Lotus and Mogra agarbattis help you recreate the pure bliss of Lord Krishna’s Vrindavan at home!
Why Should You Use Lotus Agarbattis for the Janmashtami Celebration?
In the sacred books, Lord Krishna is known as the Lotus-eyed one. The Lotus flower is considered an extremely sacred and divine flower in Hindu mythology. The Lotus (Padma) is also a symbol of creation and is believed to be the energy that resonates from Lord Vishnu who is also called Padmanabh. A Lotus flower also indicates hope and a state of Nirvana which is the attainment of ultimate bliss. It is also considered a graceful flower in Hindu mythology and is used in many religious ceremonies owing to its aura of mysticism, charm, and elegance symbolizing its purity despite growing in creeks and ponds. The pleasant and sweet fragrance of Lotus flowers symbolizes purity and spiritual enlightenment which is why lighting a Lotus agarbatti during your religious fast and puja rituals will give you the calmness to meditate with the divine. It also brings tranquility both to you soul and your surroundings.
How Mogra Agarbattis can make Janmashtami more Blissful?
A blend of spiritual divinity and childlike cheerfulness, the pristine white Mogra is another flower that is most loved by Lord Krishna and symbolizes his personality perfectly. It is a flower cherished by Lord Vishnu, the Preserver of the Universe, because of its pure white color and sweet fragrance. The warm, soft yet rich fragrance of these little white flowers fills your bhajans, kirtans, and other religious ceremonies with a lively spirit. Lighting a Mogra agarbatti during Janmashtami festivities radiates a calming and uplifting fragrance in the air that makes it a must-have floral fragrance for Janmashtami. Its joy-inducing fragrance is sure to enlighten your festive celebration with sheer enthusiasm!
Janmashtami is a festival rich in culture, tradition, and zeal. The divine and enchanting fragrances of Lotus Agarbatti and Mogra agarbattis amplify the lively spirit of this festival and make it even more joyful for you and your loved ones!