On 28th August 2024, Holy Cross International School, Boisar West, celebrated Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna, with great enthusiasm and devotion. The day was filled with spiritual, cultural, and festive activities that brought together students, teachers, and staff in a joyous celebration.
The celebration began with a special assembly, where the significance of Janmashtami was explained to the students. The Principal and teachers spoke about Lord Krishna’s life and teachings, focusing on his virtues of love, wisdom, and devotion. Students were introduced to stories of Lord Krishna’s childhood and his many divine feats, which highlight the values of righteousness, kindness, and courage.
The school was beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and images of Lord Krishna, creating a festive atmosphere. In keeping with tradition, students and teachers also set up a small altar for Lord Krishna, adorning it with flowers, fruits, and diyas (oil lamps). This created a sense of devotion and reverence throughout the school.
A major highlight of the day was the Dahi Handi Competition, where students participated with enthusiasm. The traditional game, which involves forming human pyramids to break a clay pot filled with curd (dahi), is an important part of Janmashtami celebrations. Students, dressed in traditional attire, worked together to form teams and attempted to break the “handi” in the spirit of unity and teamwork. The event was full of energy and excitement, with students cheering for their classmates and encouraging each other.
The cultural program was another exciting part of the celebration. Students performed traditional dances, skits, and songs based on the life of Lord Krishna. The dances were vibrant and colorful, with students donning beautiful traditional outfits. The skit portrayed Lord Krishna’s childhood stories, such as his mischievous activities and his divine powers, which captivated the audience. The cultural performances allowed students to connect with their cultural heritage while having fun and showcasing their talent.
To add to the festive spirit, the school organized a best-dressed competition, where students dressed up as various characters from Lord Krishna’s life, including Krishna himself, Radha, and other mythological figures. The students’ creativity and attention to detail in their costumes were impressive, and prizes were awarded for the best outfits.
At the conclusion of the celebration, the students enjoyed a traditional prasad distribution, which included sweets like peda, ladoos, and fruits. This was an opportunity for everyone to come together and share in the joy of the occasion.
In conclusion, the Janmashtami celebration at Holy Cross International School was a grand success. The event not only allowed students to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna in a fun and engaging manner but also gave them an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural and spiritual significance of the festival. The celebration brought the entire school community together, fostering a sense of unity, devotion, and cultural pride. The school looks forward to continuing such celebrations in the future to enrich students’ cultural and spiritual experiences.
