Krishna Janmashtami 2024 date, significance: Celebrate Lord Krishna’s birth with devotion

Mumbai: Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami, is a major Hindu festival commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu among the 10 principal avatars and the 22nd among the 24 incarnations. Celebrated with immense enthusiasm, this festival is observed not just across India but also in various parts of the world.

Janmashtami falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada. The festival signifies the victory of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness). According to Hindu tradition, during the Dvapara Yuga, when the rule of the tyrant Kansa on Earth became intolerable, Lord Krishna was born to rescue people from his oppression. Krishna, the eighth son of Devaki, was born in the prison of Mathura.

This day is considered extremely auspicious for worshipping Lord Krishna. Devotees believe that observing Janmashtami and performing Krishna worship brings desired results and immense spiritual merit. Additionally, the festival coincides with the formation of Jayanthi Yoga, believed to offer great spiritual benefits and the promise of heavenly pleasures for those who seek refuge in Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami 2024 date

In 2024, the Ashtami tithi (lunar day) of Krishna Paksha will commence on the night of August 26 at 3:39 AM and conclude on August 27 at 2:19 AM. Janmashtami will be celebrated over two days, August 26 and August 27. The fasting ritual will take place on August 26, based on the Udaya Tithi (rising date). However, the Krishna Janmashtami festival will be observed in Gokul and Vrindavan on August 27.

Significance of Janmashtami

The celebration of Janmashtami involves the worship of Lord Krishna in his child form. Temples are adorned with decorations, and kirtans (devotional songs) and tableaux are organised. Devotees fast until midnight, after which they partake in prasad (holy food). The following morning, the Nandotsav (celebration of Krishna’s foster father, Nanda) is also observed. Worshipping Krishna’s Laddu Gopal form on this day is believed to bring prosperity, fulfil wishes, and help absolve sins accumulated over lifetimes, ensuring ongoing familial prosperity.

How is Janmashtami celebrated?

On Janmashtami, devotees fast throughout the day and conduct Krishna worship in the evening. Lord Krishna is bathed with turmeric, yoghurt, ghee, oil, and Ganga water, then adorned with sandalwood and placed in a cradle to be rocked joyfully. Temples are richly decorated, and bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (chants) are performed. The recitation of the Srimad Bhagavatam is also a key aspect of the celebrations.

Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan

In Mathura and Vrindavan, Janmashtami is celebrated with special grandeur. Devotees chant Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare in their homes. The festivities continue with the Dahi Handi festival the day after Janmashtami, where people form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd (dahi).

Krishna Janmashtami 2024 promises to be a vibrant and spiritually enriching event, reflecting the deep devotion and cultural heritage associated with the birth of Lord Krishna.

 Celebrate Krishna Janmashtami 2024 with fervour! Learn about the auspicious date, the profound significance of Lord Krishna’s birth, and exciting celebration ideas to honour the divine. Immerse yourself in the spirit of devotion and joy this Janmashtami.  Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips