Janmashtami 2024: According to Hindi mythology, Lord Krishna was born in the prison of the demon King Kansa in Mathura as the eighth child of Devaki on this day. Krishna is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
It is believed that worshipping the child form of Lord Krishna on Janmashtami, which falls on the Ashtami of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, removes all sorrows, defects, and poverty.
When Is Krishna Janmashtami 2024?
Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 26, 2024. On this day, homes are adorned with beautiful displays, devotional songs, and kirtans are performed. Devotees fast, adorn the idol of baby Krishna, and celebrate his birth at midnight, during the Rohini Nakshatra.
Janmashtami 2024 Puja Timings
- Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami Tithi Begins: August 26, 2024, at 3:39 AM
- Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami Tithi Ends: August 27, 2024, at 2:19 AM
- Rohini Nakshatra Begins: August 26, 2024, at 3:55 PM
- Rohini Nakshatra Ends: August 27, 2024, at 1:38 PM
- Krishna Puja Timing: 12:06 AM – 12:51 AM, August 27
- Midnight Moment: 12:28 AM, August 27
- Moonrise Time: 11:41 PM
- Fast Breaking Time: After 3:38 PM, August 27
- Night Fast Breaking Time: After 12:51 AM, August 27, following Krishna’s puja
Janmashtami Celebrations In Vrindavan And Mathura
In Krishna’s birthplace, Mathura, and in Vrindavan, Janmashtami will also be celebrated on August 26, 2024. The festivities here are particularly special, with large crowds of devotees gathering for darshan at the Banke Bihari Temple.
How To Observe The Fast
Apart from worshipping Lord Krishna, observing a fast is also a significant aspect of Janmashtami. From the day before Janmashtami, known as Saptami, it is recommended to avoid tamasic foods like garlic, onions, eggplant, and radishes and to consume only sattvic food while maintaining celibacy. On Janmashtami, wake up early during the Brahma Muhurta, bathe, wear clean clothes, and resolve to observe the fast, consuming only fruits or water. Devote the entire day to Krishna Bhakti, and at midnight, celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna by offering him special delicacies. The fast can be broken the next day.
