In Uttar Pradesh, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, the birth occasion of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated today at most parts of the state with full enthusiasm, peace and gaiety. In Mathura the birth place of Lord Krishna the temples are tastefully decorated on this occasion.

Our Allahabad correspondent reports that hordes of people from all walks of life are congregated at Mathura to witness the festival with great enthusiasm and religious fervor. Devotees and people also celebrate the festival in their home as well. Large numbers of devotees even from abroad chanting Hare Krishna are also gathered at ISCON temples at Mathura, Allahabad, Varanasi and other places to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna. Decorated exhibitions depicting life of Lord Krishna have been put up and cultural programmes are also taking place at most of the police stations and police lines of the state. In many districts it was celebrated yesterday and devotees were on fast to mark the occasion.

Adequate security arrangements are in place in and around Mathura. Besides state police Para military forces are also deployed. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation has put special buses for devotees coming to Mathura for celebrating Janmashtami.