Krishna Janmashtami, which is also known by names Janmastami or Gokulastami, is a Hindu festival, celebrated, acknowledging the birth of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna, is considered to be the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Usually this day falls in the month of August or September, according to the Gregorian calendar. According to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, it falls on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha, in the month of Shraavana. This is considered to be the important function for people following Vaishnavism. During this day, many dance and recital programs and dramas on Life of Krishna, are conducted.
This is widely celebrated in the states namely Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharastra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, etc. This Krishna Janmashtami is followed by another festival namely Nandostav and it is believed that during this day Nanda Bala distributed sweets and gifts to the people, in order to honour the birth of Lord Krishna.
Rituals and Celebrations:
Lord Krishna, son of Devaki and Vasudeva, is believed to be born on the eighth day from the dark fortnight, in the Hindu month Shraavana. This day is celebrated as Krishna Janmashtami. This is widely celebrated all over India, however, there are grand celebrations on the cities Brindavan and Mathura. It is believed that, after the birth of Lord Krishna, his father Vasudeva carried him to his foster parents Nanda and Yashoda.
This day is celebrated by Hindus, decorating the idol of Lord Krishna with new clothes and decorating it with flowers. Puja which involves chanting and story recitals of Rasa Leela or Rama Leela, is also organised. Including this, dance and stage performances are also organised, which depicts the life story of Lord Krishna and act of wonders, performed by him. People also fast during this day and after everning puja, they share the sweets with their neighbours and relatives.
Date, Puja Time and Muhrat:
Since this festival is followed according to the Hindu calendar, it tends to change, when it comes to Gregorian calendar. Usually, it falls on the month of August or September and this year will be celebrated as the 5245th birthday of Lord Krishna.
- Date: Sunday September 2, 2018
- Nishita Puja Time: 23:56 – 00:43
- Duration: 46 minutes
- Midnight moment: 00:20
- September 3, 2018 – Parana Day
- Ashtami Tithi End Time: 19:19
- Rohini Nakshatra End Time: 20:05
