Makhane ki Kheer - Janmashtmi Special

Tomorrow i.e. 2nd September is Janmashtmi. Birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated on this date not only in India but in all parts of the world. Janmashtmi is also known as Gokul Ashtmi. Devotees keep fast whole day and at midnight the birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated. Idol of Bal Gopal is bathed with Panchamrit. Panchamrit means a mixture of five holy products i.e. milk, ghee, curd, honey and Gangajal (Holy Ganges water). The deity is dressed in new clothes and then the "Sringar" is done. The idol is then kep't in a well decorated Jhula (cradle) and sweets are offered to the deity. The cradle is rocked by each family member depicting a welcome.  People lit incense sticks and lamps and whole family prays together. Lord Krishna was very fond of milk and milk products hence for the 'Bhog' aur "Prasad" the deity is offered Pedha, Makhan (White Butter), Kheer, Sreekhand and Gopal kala. Today I wish to share the recipe of  Kheer made out of Makhana (Lotus Seeds). Makhana is a dry fruit. People have this for fast. In Bihar Lotus Seeds or Makhana is found mainly in Darbhanga, Purnea, Supaul, Sitamarhi and Madhubani districts. Makhana is considered to be very pure, pure enough to be offered to the god.