This annual Hindu festival celebrates the birth of Krishna, the Supreme God and eighth avatar of Vishnu. Abrahamic religions lack this concept but avatar translates to an iterative manifestation with the implication of a descent or crossing over.

Observances vary widely but might begin with fasting and a vigil the night before to reenact the night watch into which Krishna was born. Subsequent festivities include the welcoming of a “baby Krishna” in the form of a figurine, celebratory meals, reenactments of episodes from Krishna’s mythology, parades, and community gatherings with towering human pyramids.