Krishna Janmashtami: Celebrating the Birth of Lord Krishna

What is Krishna Janmashtami?

Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Janmashtami, is a major Hindu festival commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This year, Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 18th, 2023, marking Krishna's 5251st birthday.

Significance of Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna Janmashtami is one of the most popular festivals widely celebrated by Hindus across India and other countries. It celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered as a god of love, compassion, and joy.

According to the Hindu scripture Bhagavata Purana, Krishna was born in Mathura, India, during the oppressive reign of King Kamsa. Krishna's birth was miraculously predicted by a prophecy that foretold the end of Kamsa's tyranny by the eighth son of his sister Devaki.

Observances of Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by Hindus worldwide. The festival typically includes:

* Fasting: Many devotees fast on the day of Janmashtami, abstaining from food and water until midnight, when Krishna is believed to have been born. * Puja: Devotees perform puja (worship) of Lord Krishna, offering prayers, flowers, and food offerings. * Bhajans and kirtans: Throughout the day, devotees sing devotional songs (bhajans) and participate in kirtans (group chanting) in honor of Krishna. * Raslila: In some regions, devotees perform Raslila, a traditional folk dance that depicts the playful and romantic encounters between Krishna and the gopis (cowherd girls). * Dahi Handi: In Maharashtra, people celebrate Dahi Handi, a lively game where participants form human pyramids to break clay pots filled with yogurt, which symbolize the mischievous childhood antics of Krishna.