Krishna Janmashtami, one of the most revered festivals in Hinduism, is a festival that expresses the essence of Hindu spirituality and cultural richness. It commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, a deity whose wisdom and love continue to guide and inspire humanity. When devotees gather to celebrate, they are not only paying homage to a divine figure but also reaffirming their commitment to lead a life of righteousness and devotion.
Krishna Janmashtami 2024: Puja timing and duration
This year, according to Drik Panchang, the Nishita Puja time for Krishna Janmashtami 2024 will start at 12:01 am on August 27 and end at 12:45 am on August 27. The duration of Krishna Janmashtami is: 00 hours 45 minutes.
Krishna Janmashtami 2024: Date and Shubh Muhurat
Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, Shrikrishna Jayanti, Krishnasthami and Janmashtami, the festival is celebrated on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapad. Krishna Janmashtami 2024 is the 5251st birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.
This year, according to Drik Panchang, Rohini Nakshatra for Janmashtami will begin at 03:55 PM on August 26 and continue till 03:38 PM on August 27. Meanwhile, Ashtami Tithi will begin at 03:39 AM on August 26 and end at 02:19 AM on August 27.
Krishna Janmashtami 2024: History and Significance
The story of Krishna Janmashtami dates back to ancient India. Lord Krishna was born in Mathura to King Vasudeva and Queen Devaki, but grew up in Gokul under the care of his foster parents, Nanda and Yashoda. His life is beautifully described in ancient scriptures, most notably the Bhagavad Gita, the Mahabharata, and the Srimad Bhagavatam.
Lord Krishna’s birth took place in a tumultuous period when the evil King Kansa ruled Mathura. A divine prophecy had foretold that Kansa would be killed by Devaki’s eighth son, prompting the king to imprison Devaki and Vasudeva. However, Lord Krishna’s miraculous birth in the midst of a stormy night, inside the prison, ushered in a new era of righteousness and the eventual downfall of Kansa.
Krishna Janmashtami symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (injustice). Lord Krishna, often called the “God of Love” and the “Supreme Personality of Godhead,” imparted invaluable wisdom through the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing the importance of duty and devotion.
His teachings have transcended time and continue to inspire people to lead a life of virtue, empathy and spirituality. The festival serves as a reminder of these teachings and encourages devotees to strive for higher spiritual awareness.
Krishna Janmashtami 2024: Celebration
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion across India and among Hindu communities around the world. The festivities begin at midnight, the time of Lord Krishna’s birth, and continue throughout the day. Following are some key highlights of the celebration:
Fast: Many devotees observe a fast on this day, consuming only water and fruits until midnight, when the birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great grandeur.
Midnight Aarti: At midnight, temples and homes resonate with melodious bhajans (devotional songs) and prayers. The idol or image of the deity is bathed, decorated and offered special sweets, symbolizing the birth of Lord Krishna.
Dahi Handi: In Maharashtra and other regions, youngsters form human pyramids to break the ‘Dahi Handi’ (a vessel filled with curd) suspended high above the ground. This recreates the childhood antics of Lord Krishna, who would steal butter and curd.
Jhanki and Processions: Elaborate jhankis (pictures) depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna are made in temples and homes. Processions are held with beautifully decorated idols of Lord Krishna and Radha, accompanied by music and dance.
Party: A sumptuous banquet is prepared with a variety of dishes, especially butter, milk and sweets, as these were Lord Krishna’s favorites.
Lilac flavor: In some regions, performances of the playful dance of Lord Krishna with the gopis (milkmaids), known as “Rasa Lila”, are held.
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