AUSTIN, TX: For more than 5000 years, Hindus all over the world have been celebrating Shree Krishna Janmashtami, from simplest festivities with families and friends to large gatherings with thousands in attendance. Shree Raseshwari Radha Rani Temple, Barsana Dham in Austin, Texas, USA is unique among them all. Barsana Dham, founded in 1995 by HD Swami Prakashanand Saraswati, has offered truly exceptional and ecstatic Janmashtami celebrations for the past 13 years. This year, families from all over Texas and beyond came to Barsana Dham.

The ashram and the parking lot were filled to capacity as families from Austin came early in the evening to enjoy the festivities. A delicious dinner prashad was served. Mouth watering puries, chaval, dal, sabji, mithai filled everyone's plate. After dinner, everyone rushed to the Temple to secure a front row seat for the evening program.

Children enjoyed the special outdoor program, complete with a baby calf who was quickly named "Cowie". Chanting soon began - "Mero Gopala Mero Nandlala" and "Govind Gokul Ayo"; jaikars filled the air, dholak, dhol, manjira, jhanch, the traditional instruments of India, enlivened the hearts of all, each verse building on the other - Krishna Kanhaiya Lal ki Jai!A traditional and eloquent Janmashtami message was delivered by Sushree Diwakari Devi, president of JKP, Barsana Dham. Diwakari Devi (Didi) explained the importance of doing bhakti. "Do roop dhyan"…lovingly meditate on the Divine form of Shree Krishna, just as Shukdev revealed to King Parikchit in the Bhagwatam 5000 years ago. Following the discourse, the leela presentation began.

The prayer hall lights were lowered and conches heralded the first glimpse of 12 year old Shukdev entering the stage. Everyone delighted in receiving the darshan of baby Krishna - candy was thrown to all during the joyous janam scene. Further, everyone enjoyed a delightfully charming Bal Leela performed by children from all over Austin.The evening continued with chanting of Krishna name. The program concluded in the prayer hall with mid-night arti of Bal Krishna.