KATHMANDU: Shri Krishna Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated by the Hindus throughout the country on Friday with devotion and veneration.

According to scriptures, Lord Shri Krishna was born on the midnight of Bhadrakrishna Astami day as per the lunar calendar during the Dwapar era.

Lord Krishna is considered as the incarnation of Lord Bishnu, the protector of human beings from evil, injustice and devilish forces. He is also regarded as the proponent of the three principles of Gyanayog, Karmayog and Bhaktiyog.

Shri Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated in a grand manner to cherish the good deeds of Lord Krishna for a happy and prosperous life. Lord Krishna, born to Basudev and Devaki and held prisoner by Kansha in Mathura, guided humanity on the path of knowledge, truth and immortality, the legend says.

Lord Krishna is also known as “Gopal” for his dedicated service to the cows as a herder. He is also known as “Manmohan” for the melodies he used to play on his flute, charming everyone.

Devotees throng the temples of Lord Krishna from early morning today.

In the capital city, a large number of people line up since early morning before the famous Shri Krishna Mandir at Mangal Bazaar, Lalitpur, and offer puja.

The renowned and artistic Shri Krishna Temple made of stones was built by the then King of Patan, Siddhi Narsingh Malla.