The birth of a Hindu deity was celebrated on Wednesday by hundreds of people visiting a temple to eat, pray and watch a play.

Ilford Recorder: Shivai Khertola, aged oneShivai Khertola, aged one (Image: Archant)

The VHP Hindu Centre, Albert Road, Ilford, welcomed more than 500 people through its doors to mark the occasion. Lord Krishna is the eighth reincarnation of Vishnu who is one of three Hindu gods. The other two are called Brahma and Shiva.

Vinaya Sharma, from the temple, said: “It’s a very joyful celebration as it marks one of the reincarnations of Lord Vishnu.”

The day was marked with a play by children who re-enacted the story of Krishna’s birth. “Lots of people fast during the day and at night break their fast after the time Krishna was born,” Mrs Sharma added.

“We cook a meal and worshipers come to the temple throughout the day.”