Janmashtami 2023 is going to be celebrated on 6 September this year. This Hindu festival marks the divine birth of lord Krishna. Not only in India but around the world, Krishna devotees celebrate this festival. This article will let you know about Krishna Janmashtami and its significance, and also explore its customs and traditions in little more detail.
Introduction
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered and beloved deities. On this day Hindus celebrate the divine birth of lord Krishna in the form of Laddu Gopal. Parents dress their children in Krishna costumes holding a flute in their hands. Krishna devotees visit the temple and sing dance and perform rituals as per hindu beliefs. the festival has cultural importance in Maharashtra state. we can see the cultural integration on this auspicious occasion. Janmashtami celebration in Mathura, the hometown of lord Krishna is memorable for everyone.
Krishna Janmashtami 2023 Date
Krishna Janmashtami 2023 is going to be celebrated on 6 September. This festival comes in the month of August or September every year according to the lunar Calendar. On the eighth day of Rakhi Purnima or Raksha Bandhan, Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated every year. Lord Krishna’s birth is said to have taken place on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Also, Check: September Festival List
Significance of Krishna Janmashtami
Janmashtami holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and culture. It marks the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Symbolism and Teachings
Lord Krishna’s life and teachings are celebrated for their profound wisdom and spiritual guidance. His teachings emphasize the importance of righteousness, compassion, and devotion. His messages in the Bhagavad Gita have inspired generations.
The Divine Birth of Lord Krishna
Janmashtami 2023 celebrates the 5250th birth anniversary of Shri Krishna on 6 September this year. In the Dwapar Yuga, Lord Vishnu took the incarnation of Lord Krishna on the Ashtami night of the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month. At the time of the birth of Lord Krishna, Ashtami Tithi, Wednesday, was the sum of Rohini Nakshatra. Shri Krishna’s zodiac sign is Taurus. Shri Krishna was born in Chandravansh. He had selected the day, Nakshatra and Vaar with the exalted Moon sign. The ruling planet of Wednesday is Mercury. Mercury is considered the son of Chandra Dev. That’s why Shri Krishna fixed Wednesday for the birth.
Customs and Traditions of Janmashtami
Janmashtami is observed with a variety of customs and traditions that vary from region to region. Some of the most common practices include:
Fasting
Many devotees observe a fast on Janmashtami, abstaining from food until midnight when Lord Krishna is believed to have been born.
Bhajans and Kirtans
Devotees sing devotional songs, bhajans, and kirtans in praise of Lord Krishna throughout the day and night.
Matki Phod and Dahi-Handi Celebration
In some regions, an earthen pot filled with curd, butter, and milk is hung high, and young men form human pyramids to break it – a tradition known as “Matki Phod.” One of the most popular Hindu festivals in Maharashtra is Dahi Handi Festival. This festival is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Shri Krishna.
Groups of boys gather in the ground, road, or compound and they break the earthen pot hanging at a height of 20-30 feet above the ground by making pyramids. The practice of Makhan Handi is quite famous in Maharashtra and Gujarat, where the matki is hung by filling it with curd, ghee, almonds, and dry fruits. Know More: Dahi Handi Festival
Midnight Celebrations and Ras Lila
The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated at midnight, as it is believed that he was born at this auspicious hour. Devotees offer prayers and perform aarti to welcome his divine presence. Devotees enact the Ras Lila, a reenactment of Lord Krishna’s playful and enchanting dance with the Gopis (cowherd girls).
Krishna Janmashtami Celebration
Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India and in many other countries with significant Hindu populations.
Janmashtami Celebration in Temple
Janmashtami celebration in the temple is a memorable moment for everyone. Krishna devotees decorate temples with flowers and lights. Rituals are performed including abhishekam (sacred bathing). The sacred place of Lord Krishna catches the attention of everyone on this day. Shri Krishna Janma Parva is celebrated in Mathura, Vrindavan, Dwarka, Nathdwara, and ISKCON temples. Know more: Mathura Krishna Janmashtami Celebration
People also celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna at this time in their homes.
Janmashtami Celebration in School & College
A day before Janmashtami, the festival of Janmashtami was celebrated with great pomp in schools and colleges. Dahi-Handi was organized along with a cultural and colourful program on this occasion. Children enthusiastically participated in it.
Conclusion
Janmashtami is a celebration that transcends borders, uniting devotees in their reverence for Lord Krishna’s teachings. As we immerse ourselves in the festivities, let’s also strive to embrace the wisdom imparted by Lord Krishna and apply it to our journey of personal and spiritual growth.
FAQs
Why is Janmashtami celebrated at midnight?
Janmashtami is celebrated at midnight to honour the exact moment of Lord Krishna’s birth.
What is the significance of fasting on Janmashtami?
Fasting is a way to purify the body and mind, allowing devotees to connect more deeply with Lord Krishna’s energy.
What is the Ras Lila?
The Ras Lila is a reenactment of Lord Krishna’s divine dance with the Gopis, symbolizing the soul’s yearning for union with the divine.
How can I celebrate Janmashtami at home?
You can decorate your home temple, chant bhajans, read about Lord Krishna’s life, and offer aarti to honour his presence.
What is the message of Janmashtami?
Janmashtami teaches us about devotion, humility, resilience, and the pursuit of righteousness in our lives.
