The Hindu festival of Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on Thursday, September 6, 2023. This important holiday marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in the Hindu faith
According to Hindu legend, Krishna was born in the city of Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva. His birth was foretold to defeat the evil King Kansa. To protect the infant Krishna, Vasudeva took him to the village of Gokul where he was raised. Krishna grew up to be a mischievous yet wise child who later became a skilled warrior. He defeated Kansa and restored peace.
On Janmashtami, Hindus commemorate Krishna's birth through puja rituals, singing devotional songs, enacting scenes from Krishna's life, and preparing special festival foods. The puja vidhi involves creating a shrine decorated with flowers, offering prayers and hymns to Krishna, and distributing prasad. In some areas, temporary mandals or shrines are built to house images of Krishna.
Puja Muhurat & Parana time
5250th Birth Anniversary of Lord Krishna
Krishna Janmashtami on Wednesday, September 6, 2023
Nishita Puja Time - 11:38 PM to 12:24 AM Sep 07
Dahi Handi on Thursday, September 7, 2023
Parana as per Dharma Shastra
Parana Time - after 04:14 PM Sep 07
On Parana Day Ashtami Tithi End Time - 04:14 PM
Puja Vidhi
The puja vidhi for Krishna Janmashtami varies depending on the region and tradition. However, there are some common elements that are usually observed.
- The puja begins with the setting up of a shrine to Krishna. The shrine should be decorated with flowers, fruits, and sweets. An image or murti of Krishna should be placed in the center of the shrine.
- The devotee should bathe and wear clean clothes before beginning the puja.
- The devotee should offer prayers to Krishna and ask for his blessings.
- The devotee should sing hymns and mantras in praise of Krishna.
- The devotee may also offer fruits, sweets, and other offerings to Krishna.
- The puja concludes with the devotee taking prasad, which is food that has been offered to Krishna.
Significance
Krishna Janmashtami is a time for Hindus to celebrate the birth of a beloved god and to reflect on his teachings of love, compassion, and forgiveness. It is also a time for families to come together and to enjoy traditional foods and sweets.
Krishna is considered to be the embodiment of love, compassion, and joy. He is also a symbol of strength and courage. Hindus believe that by celebrating Krishna Janmashtami, they can connect with his divine energy and bring more love, compassion, and joy into their lives.
Other Events
In addition to the puja, there are many other events that are held in celebration of Krishna Janmashtami. These events include:
- Dahi Handi: This is a traditional game in which teams of men try to break a pot of curd (dahi) that is suspended high in the air. The game is said to commemorate Krishna's childhood prank of stealing butter from the village women.
- Rasa Lila: This is a theatrical reenactment of Krishna's love affairs with the gopis, or milkmaids. The play is often accompanied by music and dance.
- Gokulashtami Mela: This is a fair that is held in Gokul, the place where Krishna is said to have been born. The fair features stalls selling food, sweets, and souvenirs, as well as performances of Krishna Lila.
Krishna Janmashtami is a joyous occasion for Hindus around the world. It is a time to celebrate the birth of a beloved god and to reflect on his teachings of love, compassion, and forgiveness.