Patna: For the first time in 31 years, people in villages along the Bihar and Uttar Pradesh border are celebrating Krishna Janmashtami. The festival had not been observed since 1994, when a deadly attack by bandits led to the death of seven policemen on the same night. That tragedy left such a deep impact that residents stopped all celebrations of the festival.
The incident took place on 29 August 1994. Police officers, acting on secret information, were crossing the Gandak river to stop a bandit attack. As their boat neared Bansi Ghat, it was surrounded by armed gangs. Gunfire broke out in the middle of the river, killing the boatman and several policemen before the boat sank. All seven officers, including encounter specialist Anil Pandey, lost their lives.
After that night, the people of the area abandoned Janmashtami celebrations as a mark of respect. “The terror of the gangs was at its peak in the 90s, and this tragedy changed everything,” recalled a local leader. For three decades, temples and homes remained silent on the day of Krishna’s birth.
This year, however, the tradition has finally changed. Residents have decided to bring back the celebrations, decorating temples and homes with lights and offerings. Even police stations are marking the occasion, following orders from the current SP, Santosh Mishra. For many villagers, the return of Janmashtami is not only a festival but also a way to heal from the painful memories of 1994.
