Celebrating the Divine Birth of Lord Krishna

Table of Contents

1) Significance of Janmashtami

2) Why is Janmashtami Celebrated for 2 Days?

3) How is Janmashtami Celebrated?

• Fasting and Midnight Vigil

• Decorations and Celebrations

• Dahi Handi

• Cultural Performances

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is one of the most revered festivals amongst Hindus. The day marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is celebrated with great fervour and zeal amongst different parts of India.

Significance of Janmashtami

According to the Hindu Lunar Calendar, Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada. This usually falls in August or September and if dates are to be followed, Janmashtami 2024 is set to be observed on 26th August this year.

The day is considered spiritually significant as Lord Krishna is believed to have been born over 5,200 years ago to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura. His birth is celebrated to honour his divine mission of eradicating evil and establishing dharma (righteousness). If you ask elderly people, they will tell you that Krishna’s birth was to bring an end to the tyrannical reign of his maternal uncle, King Kansa, who sought to kill him. Despite numerous attempts by Kansa, Krishna's miraculous survival during infancy and childhood symbolises the victory of good over evil.

Why is Janmashtami Celebrated for 2 Days?

One of the unique aspects of Janmashtami is its celebration over two days. Many people often ask why is it so? Well, the answer lies in the Hindu lunar calendar and the timing of Krishna's birth.

Lord Krishna was born at midnight on the Ashtami tithi (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha. As per Hindu tradition, the day is calculated from sunrise to the next sunrise, which means that the Ashtami tithi might fall on two consecutive days, depending on the time of midnight. As a result, Janmashtami is observed for two days in many regions, especially in places of great religious significance such as Mathura and Vrindavan.

On the first day, devotees observe a day-long fast, perform special prayers, and stay awake until midnight, the time of Krishna's birth. The next day is known as Nanda Utsav, marking the joyous celebrations of Krishna's birth, where devotees break their fast and partake in various festive activities.

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How is Janmashtami Celebrated?

The celebration of Janmashtami is marked by a wide array of customs and rituals, reflecting the cultural diversity of India. From fasting to feasting, from quiet prayers to exuberant public performances, every aspect of Janmashtami is filled with devotion and joy.

• Fasting and Midnight Vigil

Devotees observe a strict fast on Janmashtami, abstaining from grains and certain foods. The fast is broken only after midnight, following the ritual of worshipping the baby Krishna, who is cradled in a beautifully decorated swing. Devotees sing bhajans (devotional songs), recite slokas, and perform aarti to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. The midnight vigil, known as Jagran, is an integral part of the celebration, symbolising the devotees' readiness to welcome the divine child into their lives.

• Decorations and Celebrations in Temples and Homes

Homes and temples are adorned with flowers, lights, and intricate rangolis. The idols of Lord Krishna are dressed in new clothes, and the cradle or jhoola is often a centrepiece in households and temples. Temples like the ISKCON temples in Delhi and Vrindavan, Prem Mandir in Vrindavan, and Jagannath Temple in Odisha are particularly renowned for their elaborate decorations and grand celebrations during Janmashtami.

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Special Jhankis (tableaux) depicting scenes from Krishna’s life are set up in many temples, attracting large crowds of devotees. These Jhankis often include depictions of Krishna’s playful activities as a child, his interaction with the gopis (milkmaids), and the legendary Raas Leela.

• Dahi Handi

One of the most vibrant and exciting aspects of Janmashtami is the Dahi Handi event, which takes place on the day following Janmashtami. This tradition is especially popular in Maharashtra. Inspired by Lord Krishna's love for butter, young men form human pyramids to reach and break a pot (handi) filled with curd or butter, which is hung high above the ground. This event symbolises Krishna’s playful and mischievous nature, earning him the name "Makhan Chor" or "Butter Thief."

• Cultural Performances and Celebrations in Schools

Janmashtami is also celebrated in schools across India, where children dress up as Lord Krishna, Radha, and other characters from Krishna’s life. Dance performances, skits, and recitations are organised, showcasing the stories of Krishna’s childhood, his divine exploits, and his teachings from the Bhagavad Gita.

In Essence
To sum it up, Janmashtami is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of life, love, and the eternal bond between the divine and the devotee. As we approach Janmashtami 2024, let us immerse ourselves in the teachings of Lord Krishna, who exemplified the principles of karma (action), bhakti (devotion), and dharma (righteousness).

Whether you are planning to participate in a midnight vigil, breaking the Dahi Handi, or simply reflecting on the life of Krishna, this festival offers a profound opportunity for spiritual growth and inner joy. In case you are planning to visit Vrindavan, don’t forget to find the hotels in Vrindavan on our website.

Happy Janmashtami!