Melbourne is set for a special treat as a resident performs Manipuri classical dance during the Janmashtami celebrations, one of the city’s major Hindu festivals.
Janmashtami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, is especially significant in Manipur, a state in northeast India, where the dances blend religious traditions with local culture. Bringing this dance to Melbourne adds a unique touch to the celebration.
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Melbourne, hosting its largest annual event Janmashtami, is presenting the Festival of India where this dance will feature among various art forms from the Indian subcontinent.
ISKCON Melbourne established its temple at Albert Park in 1975 and has hosted the Janmashtami festival annually ever since. Last year’s event, held across three locations for the first time, attracted over 18,000 attendees.
Nitin Pullat, a member of the ISKCON executive committee, is excited about this year’s Janmashtami celebrations. “It has taken us a few months of planning, and this year we will host the festival at Berwick, Altona and Albert Park on August 27,” he shares.
Pullat explains the day’s program. “At the temple, we will have extended darśanas (viewings) from 4 am onwards, an abhiseka (prayers) of Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa, a lamp-lit midnight darśana, and ārati (worship with lights). Delicious prasādam (food) will be available throughout the day, and we’ll conclude with a midnight feast.”
At the other two venues, darshan starts at 2 pm at Westgate Indoor Sports in Altona and at 5 pm Akoondah Park Centre in Berwick and. At both these locations devotees can witness and participate in abhisheka, kirtans, aarti.
An extravagant cultural fest will be organised at both these venues. Also known as the Festival of India, it will showcase cultural performances, including drama, dance, and music from various regions of India, performed by both adults and children.
Pullat believes these festivals provide children with a platform to showcase their talents and connect with their heritage. “Also for parents who are visiting, it offers an opportunity to relive their nostalgia and feel closer to home.”
The Victorian Multicultural Commission has given some funding for which Pullat says his organisation is grateful. “We also appreciate the support from local councils, which have provided additional grants to help make this event possible.”
“Efforts are being made to include people from diverse cultural backgrounds in the Janmashtami celebrations,” Pullat adds. “The invitation is open to everyone. Over the years, we have seen non-Indians and mainstream attendees as well.”
Pullat is very proud of the initiatives taken by Hare Krishna Melbourne to promote understanding and appreciation of Hindu culture and traditions across Victoria through festivals like Janmashtami and other programs.
Each week, they hold satsangs (meditation or open discussions) at 32 locations in Melbourne, where small groups of up to 15 families gather to focus on practical applications of the Bhagavad Gita, including managing anxiety and stress.
They also organise seminars with external experts on topics such as mental health, helping reduce isolation and foster a sense of community. Local support groups assist families facing emergencies or health issues, offering help with cooking, financial support, and other needs. This support network has proven invaluable to many families.
Pullat cites a recent example where a family member was diagnosed with breast cancer. For months, the close-knit group ensured she did not have to cook. They organised a meal roster, with members delivering meals and offering companionship.
“The patient felt strong and very happy,” says Pullat, adding, “There are also programs for children on learning about scriptures and values.”
The Albert Park ISKCON temple, will host their annual cultural fest on August 10 from 11am to 8 pm at Timber Yard, Port Melbourne, this year to accommodate more devotees and visitors.
In closing, Pullat has a message for the wider community: “Janmashtami embodies devotion, which means serving others selflessly without expecting anything in return.
“This is an opportunity for us to give back to the community. It is our expression of love and gratitude for what we have received and a chance to see the community come together to celebrate and spread joy and love to everyone.”
The Indian Sun acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.
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Melbourne's #Janmashtami celebrations will feature Manipuri classical dance, showcasing Indian culture. Hosted by @ISKCON Melbourne, the event inc cultural performances, prayers & community support, promoting Hindu traditions. 🕺🙏🎉🇮🇳🎶 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/EWM0Gj8jRr
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