Krishna Janmashtami is the birthday celebration of Krishna, who is the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. This is one of the most important Hindu festivals for Hindus.
According to the Hindu calendar, this occasion is celebrated on the Ashtami of Krishna Paksha, or the 8th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadon which is usually in August or September.
People believe that Krishna is one of the most powerful human incarnations of the Lord Vishnu. He was born around 5,200 years ago in the prison of Mathura in the custody of Kansa.
Vasudev, his father decided to hand over his child to Nand to save Krishna from the clutch of Kansa. Kanha grew up in Gokul as the son of Nandand finally killed Kansa.
The main objective of Sri Krishna's birth was to make the world free from the evilness of demons. He played a very important role in Mahabharata and taught the actual meaning of bhakti and good karma; all his lessons are narrated deeply in the Bhagwat Geeta.
To celebrate this day, people go to the temple and worship Lord Krishna. Besides, people celebrate this day in different ways across the country like organizing Dahihandi competitions, Raas Leela performances, and many more. Here there are some examples:
Janmashtami is celebrated at a grand level with an unmatched zeal in Mathura and Vrindavan, as these places are very close to Lord Krishna, he was born in Mathura and grew up in Vrindavan.
Here, Krishna Leela and Raas Leela are organized. People from different parts of the world come here to experience this festival.
Krishna established his kingdom in Dwarka so, it is one of the most important festivals for the state. Here, people decorate their houses, and temples, sing devotional songs, and prepare sweetmeats to offer to God.
In Maharashtra, the festival is celebrated mainly by organizing Dahi Handi competitions. Groups of people form a human pyramid to break an earthen pot filled with curd.
In Tamil Nadu, people observe fast for the whole day and decorate the floor with beautiful patterns made of rice batter.
In Andhra Pradesh, young people dress up as Krishna, and devotees sing devotional songs and chant mantras. Besides, people make sweet dishes like seedai, and sweet sedate to mark the celebration.
24th August Nishita Puja Time– 00:01 to 00:45 Parana Time– 05:59 (24th August) after sunrise Rohini Nakshatra End Time- before sunrise Ashtami Tithi Begins – 08:08 (23rd August) Ashtami Tithi Ends – 08:31 (24th August)
May the blessings of Lord Krishna always be with you and your family. Wishing you all a very Happy Janmashtami!