Krishna Janmashtami 2024: Janmashtami, a Hindu festival, is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Based on the Hindu lunar calendar, the festival usually falls in August.
It is characterized by various traditions, including fasting, devotional singing and re-enactments of Krishna’s life and deeds.
Devotees often stay up late on the night of Janmashtami as Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight. Special prayers, bhajans (religious songs) and religious ceremonies are held at this time to celebrate his birth.
Temples and houses are often decorated and the image of the deity is dressed in new clothes and adorned with flowers.
The festival is lively and joyful and reflects the deep devotion of the people towards Krishna and his teachings.
Janmashtami 2024: Date and Time
This year, Janmashtami is celebrated on Monday, August 26.
Ashtami Tithi begins – August 26 at 03:39 am
Ashtami Tithi ends – August 27th at 02:19 am
Rohini Nakshatra begins on August 26th at 3:55 pm
Rohini Nakshatra ends on August 27th at 3:38 pm
Parana time – August 27 at 00:11
Nishita Puja Timings – 26 August: From 23:26 to 00:11 on 27 August
Janmashtami 2024: Celebrations
Dahi Handi is a special event organized on the occasion of the festival in some regions of India, especially in Maharashtra. In this event, teams of young men form human pyramids to smash a clay pot of yogurt suspended high above. This symbolizes Krishna’s playful nature and his love for dairy products.
The life and exploits of Krishna are often portrayed in dance dramas known as “Krishna Leela,” which depict episodes from his childhood, including his miracles and adventures.
In some cities, colorful processions with decorated floats and large Krishna images take place, accompanied by music, dancing and singing.
Janmashtami 2024: Meaning
Krishna’s birth is said to have taken place to restore cosmic order by defeating the tyrannical ruler Kansa and his evil allies. Therefore, Janmashtami represents the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).
Krishna’s teachings and actions provide spiritual guidance and philosophical insights. The Bhagavad Gita, a central Hindu scripture, is a conversation between Krishna and the Pandava prince Arjuna that addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas of life and emphasizes duty, righteousness, and devotion.
