Bal Gopal

 Lord Krishna the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu was born on Ashtami of Krishna Paksha. 

Lord Krishna is said to have been born in a dungeon in present-day Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. He was born to Queen Devaki and King Vasudev at midnight. Hence, as per tradition, the Krishna Janmashtami puja is performed in the Nishita Kaal, which is around midnight.

 Lord Krishna is the God of love, compassion, and tenderness. He is also known for playing mischievous pranks and performing miracles with his supreme powers. As per belief, Kansa, brother of Queen Devaki, heard a prophecy that Lord Krishna was born to destroy him. Thus, Kansa tried to eliminate Krishna but before he could do that, Krishna was safely sent out of the dark dungeon. King Vasudeva crossed the Yamuna River carrying Krishna over his head in a basket and provided him a safe haven in Gokul.

Bal Gopal is also known as Nonichora because of his fondness for Noni or Makhan in his childhood. Bal Gopal is one of the most adored and loved gods of the Hindu religion.  

Depicted here in Bengali Alpana style is Bal Gopal or little Krishna savoring Noni or Makhan from pots.