THE UTSAV

SHRI KRISHNA’S FESTIVE YEAR

“We experience Krishna with our eyes, we feel Him through all of our senses. Hari is the desire, the festival of our hearts. To imbibe Krishna’s form is the ultimate reward. “(Venu Gita, Subodhini)

Even though bhaktas constantly celebrate Shri Krishna’s form and Lila in the Path of Grace, there are certain days set aside as special occasions. Other festival are connected with the lilas Lord Krishna performed here on earth , such as the swing festival of Hindola, and the celebration of Annakuta ,when Shri Krishna is offered a mountain of food. Other festivals like Makar Sankranti are of Vedic origin, while some festivals have their roots in local traditions. The entire forty day season of Basant is considered to be a festival .Every there years, when an extra month is added to the calendar, any festival can be celebrated on any day for the entire month!

Bhaktas are always looking forward to celebrating Shri Krishna. The Sanskrit Word, utsav not only means festival, but carries the meaning of delight, merriment and pleasure. Utsav elevate not only the mood of the bhakta, but of Shri Krishna as well. Shri Krishna is always in festive mood.