This year’s Janmashtami commemoration date is causing consternation. Learn about Krishna Janmashtami and its auspicious date (Shubh Muhurat).
Every year, the nation fervently embraces Janmashtami, known as Gokulashtami, Shrikrishna Jayanti, Krishnasthami, and Krishna Janmashtami. This lively celebration takes place on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapad, casting a veil of uncertainty over this year’s festivities. Amid dilemmas of September 6 or 7, devotees of Lord Krishna question the celebration date. To resolve this, we extend our guidance to pinpoint the accurate auspicious day.
Know When is Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami, occurring on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in Bhadrapada, aligns with the Hindu lore that Krishna’s birth transpired during the Rohini Nakshatra. This year, the Drik Panchang notes that Janmashtami coincides on consecutive days due to the overlap of Rohini Nakshatra and Ashtami Tithi during the night. As the Ashtami Tithi begins at 3:37 pm on September 6 and ends at 4:14 pm on September 7, while the Rohini Nakshatra spans from 9:20 am on September 6 to 10:25 am on September 7, Janmashtami will see celebrations on both days. While September 6 marks Janmashtami, Dahi Handi festivities will unfold on September 7.
Krishan Janmashtami Subh Muhurat
- According to Drik Panchang, the Nishita Puja window is from 11:57 p.m. to 12:42 a.m. on September 7.
- Consequently, the auspicious period for Janmashtami worship commences at 11:57 pm.
- The celebration of Laddu Gopal’s birth anniversary and worship will extend until 12:42 midnight.
- The Parana, marking the conclusion of the fasting period, is scheduled for 4:14 pm on September 7.
- Janmashtami commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.
- Devotees worship his infant forms, Bal Gopal and Laddu Gopal, on this day.
- According to Vedic chronology, this year signifies Lord Krishna’s 5250th birthday.
- The celebrations encompass temple visits, fasting, home decoration, culinary preparations, and Lord Krishna’s idol adorning.
The festival encompasses the entire nation, featuring grand celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, intimately connected to Krishna’s birth and upbringing.
Rituals and Observances:
- Fasting: Many devotees observe a day-long fast, refraining from consuming grains and certain foods. The fast is broken only at midnight, during the time of Krishna’s birth.
- Midnight Celebrations: The divine moment of Krishna’s birth is celebrated at midnight with fervor and enthusiasm. Temples reverberate with devotional songs and prayers leading up to the midnight hour.
- Devotional Singing and Dancing: Devotees gather to sing devotional songs (bhajans) and dance (Raas Leela) to commemorate Krishna’s life and teachings.
- Swinging the Cradle: Temples and homes decorate a cradle with flowers and lights, gently rocking the idol of baby Krishna to symbolize his birth.
- Offerings and Prayers: Elaborate offerings of sweets, fruits, and delicacies are made to the deity. Devotees offer their heartfelt prayers and seek blessings for happiness and prosperity.
- Decorations: Homes and temples are adorned with flowers, rangoli (decorative designs), and lights to create a festive atmosphere.
