RAWALPINDI, Aug 11: The Hindu community of the garrison city on Saturday celebrated Janm Ashtami –birthday of Lord Krishna- with religious fervour.

More than 100 families gathered at Krishna Temple at Saddar. Local Hindus offered the religious rituals of the day.

The area in and around the temple presented the riot of colours as the young and old came out and dance to celebrate the birthday of Krishna. For some poor Hindus, the day was for festivity. They were wearing colourful dresses.

The function started with prayers (Pooja) of Krishna, whose pictures at prayer room were decorated with garlands. They recited versus from Geeta –a holy book of Hindus which has the speeches of Krishna. The celebrations were followed by the distribution of sweets and fruits.

Before the function, the Hindu community prayed for the prosperity of the country and countrymen. They said the Lord Krishna taught the lesson of peace, love and brotherhood.

The earthen pot, having milk and butter, breaking is necessary item of the festival as it break in the memory of Krishna as he liked milk and butter. They also presented the story through tableau.

Jaq Mohan Arora, All Pakistan Hindu and Sikh Welfare Association President, told Dawn that the Hindu community living in the garrison city and adjoining capital city of Islamabad made all the arrangements on their own.