Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna will be celebrated across the country today. Different states celebrate the day with various customs, traditions and practices. A common ritual is to visit Krishna temples and offer prayers, flowers and sweets. Meanwhile, Twitterati is sending Krishna Jayanti wishes on Twitter. Temple town of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh witnesses large-scale celebration every day on Gokulashtami. Devotees gather around Vrindavan or in Govardhan and Barsana for the celebration. Dahi Handi which showcases the playful nature of young Krishna stealing curd is held at different states in the country. Chappan Bhog For Janmashtami 2018: Know Why It Is Offered to Lord Krishna and List of Food Items Included in the Feast

Mumbai witnesses some of the biggest Dahi Handi events in the state. Ahead of the celebrations, the Dahi Handi Samanvay Samiti, a government recognised umbrella body of Govinda mandals in Mumbai asked its members to follow rules set by the court which includes getting mandatory insurance cover. And as the celebrations have begun, actors, celebs, politicians and commoners have all taken to Twitter wishing each other Krishna Janmashtami. Janmashtami 2018 Greetings: Best WhatsApp Messages, GIF Images, Facebook Status & SMS to Wish Happy Gokulashtami on Lord Krishna’s Birthday!

Here are some of the tweets:

According to Hindu mythology, Krishna is considered as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Bollywood celebrities are a common sight at Dahi Handi events in Mumbai.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Sunday extended 'Janmashtami' greetings to the people of the state and urged them to protect cows.

Radha Raman temple, Radha Damodar temple and Shah Ji Temple in Mathura remained open for two hours post-midnight on Sunday to facilitate pilgrims.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also on Sunday extended Janmashtami greetings to people on the occasion.

As per beliefs, Krishna came to earth to use his powers to drive away evil. Lord Krishan was born to Devaki and Vasudeva but was brought up by Nanda and Yashoda as his uncle Kansa who was the King wanted to kill him. It was prophesied that eighth child of Devaki would kill the King, hence he kept Krishna's parents in jail, however, the baby escaped the prison after its birth. Krishna was born at midnight due to which the festival and related puja rituals are held at 12 in the night.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 03, 2018 09:38 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).