Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, is a major Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Observed with great fervour across India, Janmashtami is a day of joyous celebrations, spiritual reflection, and cultural festivities. For 2024, Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 26. This festival, marked by devotion and joy, commemorates the divine birth of Krishna, who is believed to be the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Here’s a detailed look at the Krishna Janmashtami 2024 date, time, significance and celebrations of this auspicious occasion.

Krishna Janmashtami 2024 Date and Tithi

This year, Krishna Janmashtami falls on August 26. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, the festival is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. Ashtami Tithi will begin on August 25 at 06:09 PM and end on August 26 at 04:49 PM.

Krishna Janmashtami History

Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered for his divine play (Leela) and teachings. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna was born in the Dvapara Yuga, a time marked by the evil rule of King Kansa. To rid the world of tyranny and restore righteousness, Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in the prison cell of Kansa’s palace.

Krishna Janmashtami Significance

Krishna Janmashtami holds immense significance for devotees as it celebrates the birth of one of the most revered gods in Hinduism. Lord Krishna is known for his divine play (Leela) and his teachings on righteousness, duty, and devotion. His life symbolises the triumph of good over evil and the importance of living a life of dharma (righteousness).

Krishna Janmashtami Rituals and Celebration

The celebration of Krishna Janmashtami involves a variety of traditional customs and rituals:

Midnight Worship: The main event occurs at midnight, believed to be the time of Krishna’s birth. Temples and homes are decorated with flowers and lights, and elaborate ceremonies are conducted. Offerings of sweets, fruits, and milk are made to Krishna’s idol.

Dahi Handi: In some regions, particularly in Maharashtra, the festival is marked by the Dahi Handi event, where teams of young men form human pyramids to break a pot of curd suspended high above the ground. This reenacts Krishna’s childhood pastime of stealing butter.

Rituals and Processions: Devotees participate in processions and carry idols of Krishna through the streets. They also engage in reenactments of Krishna’s life, including his miraculous feats and his role as a divine lover and protector.

Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees observe a day-long fast, breaking it at midnight with a feast. Special dishes like Makhan and Peda are prepared as offerings to Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami 2024 is a time for celebrating the divine birth of Lord Krishna with fervour and devotion. It is an occasion to reflect on his teachings, partake in vibrant festivities, and renew one’s spiritual commitments. Whether through fasting, prayer, or participation in traditional events, Krishna Janmashtami offers a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual experiences for devotees worldwide.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 08, 2024 09:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).