Krishna Janmashtami: Commemorating the Birth of Lord Krishna
Posted on: 06/Sep/2023 12:41:12 PM
The tale of Krishna Janmashtami harks back to the birth of Lord Krishna, a revered figure in Hindu mythology. His mother, Devaki, found herself imprisoned by her own brother, King Kansa, due to a prophecy that foretold one of her sons would bring about Kansa`s demise. To thwart this prophecy, Kansa kept Devaki locked away to prevent her from having children.
However, despite Kansa`s elaborate precautions, Lord Krishna was born. He was secretly whisked away from the prison by his father, Vasudeva, and raised by Nanda and Yashoda in Gokul. As Krishna grew, he displayed extraordinary strength and performed miraculous feats, eventually fulfilling the prophecy by defeating and slaying King Kansa.
The celebration of Krishna Janmashtami occurs annually on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana, falling typically between August and early September. This sacred occasion marks the birth of Lord Krishna and is observed with deep devotion and enthusiasm, both in temples and households.
Devotees traditionally fast and engage in special puja (worship) on this day, paying homage to Lord Krishna. Krishna Janmashtami is also known by various names, including Krishnashtami, Krishna Jayanthi, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti, and Srijayanti.
Krishna Janmashtami, also referred to as Gokulashtami, is a grand and widely celebrated festival across India, dedicated to commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna. According to the Hindu calendar, Krishna Janmashtami falls on the Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapad, which corresponds to the dark fortnight of the moon or the eighth day of the waning moon phase.
In line with Vedic traditions, devotees take the Sankalpa (sacred vow) after completing their morning rituals and carry out Krishna Puja at the midnight hour. The idol of Baby Krishna is ritually cleansed with Pancha Amrit, adorned in new attire and jewelry, and placed in a cradle adorned with flowers, fruits, and sweets. Dahi Handi programs are also a highlight of the celebration, as Lord Krishna had a penchant for Makhan (white butter), curd, and milk.
Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Save the Date
Krishna Janmashtami falls in August or September, depending on the Gregorian calendar. It is typically observed over two consecutive days, with the first day dedicated to Smarta Sampradaya and the second to Vaishnava Sampradaya.
This year, Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on September 6 and 7.
Shri Krishna Janmashtami: Auspicious Timing
As the joyous occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami approaches, it`s essential to be aware of the auspicious timing for this revered celebration. The auspicious period for Shri Krishna Janmashtami in 2023 is set to begin at 3:37 p.m. on September 6th and will continue until 4:14 p.m. on the following day, September 7th.
