Janmashtami is a lively Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of the god Krishna. This year, the festival falls on August 26, 2024. Devotees celebrate by visiting temples and fasting. Communities also hold lively programs with dance performances in honor of Radha Krishna’s Ras Leela. One of the highlights is the Dahi Haldi tradition, where people form human pyramids to reach and break a pot full of dahi and butter. Offerings Makhan (Butter) for Lord Krishna is a cherished tradition. But why is butter so important? Let us delve into the stories behind Krishna’s love for butter.
That is why Lord Krishna loves Makhan:
1. From a cowherd community
Lord Krishna grew up under the care of Nand Baba, the cowherd chief, and his wife Yashoda. Surrounded by cows and embedded in a community that thrives on milk and milk products, Krishna’s fondness for butter reflects his deep roots in this cowherd society.
Read also: Janmashtami 2024: 5 Bhog Recipes to Liven Up the Festival
2. The Beloved’Makhan Choir’
As a child, Krishna was nicknamed “Makhan Chor’ or ‘butter thief’. He delighted in stealing butter and yogurt, not only from his own house but also from his neighbors in Gokul. While this behavior often led to complaints from the gopis to Yashoda, Krishna’s charm ensured that he won everyone’s hearts despite his thefts.
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3. Made with love
Krishna’s love for butter was so great that his mother Yashoda, his beloved Radha and the gopis made butter especially for him and gave it to him with their own hands. Seeing Krishna enjoying this lovingly made butter filled their hearts with immense joy.
Read also: Made with love: How food can become a medium that brings people closer together
4. Spread joy
Krishna’s playful antics with butter, whether devouring it from a pot or “stealing” it from the neighbors, are filled with joy and affection. These delightful stories remind us that children should be allowed to enjoy their childhood freely and without unnecessary stress or restrictions.
Want to make white butter at home for Janmashtami 2024? Here is a simple recipe.
Note: This article discusses themes and stories from Hindu mythology for informational and educational purposes. While an attempt has been made to present the material accurately, interpretations of mythological texts may vary.
