Pics: Umesh Marpalli/Pareekshith Shet

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Aug 25: Srikrishna Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, was celebrated with religious fervour and joyous mood at Srikrishna Math here, one of the best known centres of worship dedicated to Lord Krishna in the country, on Wednesday August 24.

This time, Pejavar Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji has decided to allow celebration of Srikrishna Janmashtami on two days, ie August 24 and 25 in view of differing views put forth by people who do calculations for Hindu calendar.

The Swamiji, who observed fast all through the day, offered libation to Lord Chandra and then to Lord Srikrishna at 11.48 pm, the time when moon rises. Pejavar Swamiji's junior, Sri Vishwaprasannateertha Swamiji, too followed his Guru in offering Arghya (libation).

Thereafter, devotees who were patiently waiting for their turn, started to offer holy basil twigs and Arghya in the form of water poured through the conch to Lord Srikrishna. They also received Chakkuli and Unde Prasadam which was handed over to them on behalf of the Math.

Student of Pejavar Swamiji, Lakshmikanth, explaining about the importance and uniqueness of Arghya, said that Arghya is offered only on the occasion of Srikrishna Janmashtami after observing fast the entire day. Arghya offered that day brings lot of grace of the Lord to the devotees, he stated. There is no custom of offering Arghya on other festivals.

The Swamiji will be continuing to fast till he offers special puja and Arghya to Lord Chandra and Lord Krishna at 11.48 pm on Thursday August 25 at Srikrishna Math. Thereafter, Prasadam distribution will take place, followed by Vittla Pindi will be celebrated.