Janmashtami- Krishna our own Makhan Chor Birthday

Janmashtami is the day when the naughty Nandgopala was born. It is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. Krishna, who is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is the 8th born son of Vasudev and Devaki. Krishna was born in Mathura that why the largest celebration takes place there.

As Kanha was born at midnight, devotees fast and sing devotional songs when the clock strikes 12. After that Laddoo Gopal i.e. the statue of baby Krishna are washed and then worshipped. After that devotees break their fast and share food and sweets.

History of Janmashtami

Princess Devaki, sisiter of evil King Kansa who ruled Mathura was married to Vasudev. Somehow, Kansa got to know that the 8th son of Devaki and Vasudev will be the cause of his downfall.

So, to be safe Kansa imprisoned Devaki alongwith Vasudev. Evil King Kansa killed the first six children but the 7th child named Balram was transferred from Devaki’s womb to Princess Rohini.

After that the 8th child who is the 8th avatar of Lord Vishnu, Vasudeva managed to escape from the prison and rescued child Krishna taking him safely to Vrindavan where he was handed over to Nand and Yashoda.

Vasudeva then returned to Mathura with a girl child so that Kansa wouldn’t kill her. However, Kansa threw the baby on a huge rock in order to kill her. As he tried to kill her, she transformed into Goddess Durga and warned him about his death.

What all is done on the festival of Janmashtami?

Kanha devotees’ keeps fast for the whole day and break their fast at midnight when the ashtami tithi gets over. Abhishek of Krishna’s child roop i.e. Ladoo gopal is done with milk, ghee and water. The next day after Janmashtami is celebrated as the dahi handi festival. 

This year Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 24, 2019 and Dahi Handi will take place on August 25, 2019.

Pooja Time: August 25, 12:01 AM – 12:46 AM

Wishing you all a Happy Janmashtami!!