Know everything about Janmashtami: Know the real date of Janmashtami: When is Janmashtami 2023? Is it on September 6 or 7? Learn about the Pooja timing and discover how & why this special day is celebrated in India and Hindu traditions.
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- What is the real date of Janmashtami 2023? Is Krishna Janmashtami on September 6 or 7?
- Why does Krishna Janmashtami span two days?
- What are the rituals and customs associated with Krishna Janmashtami?
- What is the significance of Lord Krishna and his birth?
- Where is Krishna Janmashtami celebrated and why?
- What is Krishna Janmashtami 2023 Pooja Time?
What is the real date of Janmashtami 2023? Is Krishna Janmashtami on September 6 or 7?
Krishna Janmashtami, a revered Hindu festival, marks the birth of Lord Krishna, a beloved deity known for his compassion and wisdom. This year, according to the Gregorian calendar, the auspicious occasion falls on September 6, as per the Vaishnava tradition, and September 7, as per the Smarta tradition. The varying dates stem from the distinct calculation methods employed by these two prominent sects within Hinduism.
As per the sources, the Rohini Nakshatra for Janmashtami will commence at 09:20 am on September 6 and will continue till 10:25 am on September 7. With both Rohini Nakshatra and Ashtami Tithi coinciding on the night of Krishna Janmotsav, which falls on September 6, Shri Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on the very same day i.e. 6th September.
Why does Krishna Janmashtami span two days?
The two-day celebration of Krishna Janmashtami arises from the nuanced differences between the Smarta and Vaishnava sects. The Smarta tradition follows a comprehensive approach, considering elements like Nishita (midnight), Tithi (lunar day), and Nakshatra (lunar mansion). In contrast, the Vaishnava tradition primarily prioritizes Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra.
When these factors converge on either the 6th or 7th of September, both sects rejoice in tandem. However, when discrepancies arise, Smarta followers observe the festival on the earlier date, while Vaishnava followers celebrate on the later one.
What are the rituals and customs associated with Krishna Janmashtami?
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by Hindus around the world. The festival marks the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. The celebrations are characterized by a blend of religious rituals, devotional activities, and cultural events. Here’s how Krishna Janmashtami is typically celebrated:
- Temple Decorations: Krishna temples are adorned with elaborate decorations, colorful flowers, jhulas, and festive lights to create a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore our special segment on the Best Temple, Jhula, Mandir, and Idol Decoration ideas!
- Idol Preparation: The idol of Lord Krishna is bathed, dressed in new clothes, and adorned with jewelry and ornaments. Devotees offer items like milk, ghee (clarified butter), and sweets as offerings to the deity.
- Fast and Vigil: Many devotees observe a fast on this day, refraining from consuming grains and certain foods. They spend the day in prayer, meditation, and reading sacred texts. As the day transitions into night, a vigil called “ratri jagaran” is observed, during which devotees engage in devotional singing, recitations, and storytelling, often focusing on the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.
- Kids As Krishna & Radha: Lots of moms and dads put their kids in Krishna and Radha costumes to make the celebration more fun. Boys usually dress up as Krishna, and girls as Radha. But some parents are now letting their kids decide how they want to dress, without worrying about traditional roles. Read here why this mother dressed her daughter as Krishna and not Radha.Â
- Wishing Friends & Relatives: People wish their close friends and relatives on this special occasion. Some even send beautiful messages or Krishna quotes to send their wishes to their loved ones. We have consolidated some of the best Gita quotes along with many inspiring Krishna quotes. Don’t miss out on them! Â
- Midnight Celebrations: Lord Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight, so the peak of the celebrations occurs around this time. Devotees gather at temples to chant hymns, sing devotional songs (bhajans), and offer prayers as they eagerly anticipate the moment of Krishna’s birth.
- Dance-Drama Performances: In various regions, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, dance-drama enactments depicting episodes from Krishna’s life, such as his childhood antics and his divine interventions, are performed. These performances are known as “Rasa Lila” and are a highlight of the celebrations.
- Swinging Ceremony: Devotees often engage in a ritual of swinging the idol of baby Krishna in a cradle or a decorated swing. This act symbolizes Krishna’s birth and is accompanied by devotional songs and prayers.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken after the midnight celebrations with a feast that includes a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes, sweets, and fruits.
- Dahi Handi: In some regions, particularly Maharashtra, a lively tradition known as “Dahi Handi” takes place. Participants form human pyramids to reach and break a pot filled with curd and butter, symbolizing Krishna’s love for dairy products. This event is accompanied by music, dance, and cheerful competition.
- Community Celebrations: Krishna Janmashtami is a time of community bonding. Devotees gather in temples, cultural centers, and homes to celebrate together, share stories, exchange gifts, and strengthen their spiritual connections.
- Charitable Acts: Many people take the opportunity to engage in acts of charity and compassion on this day, reflecting the virtues embodied by Lord Krishna.
Krishna Janmashtami is a time of deep devotion, joy, and spiritual reflection. The festivities not only honor the divine birth but also serve as a reminder of the teachings and virtues that Lord Krishna exemplified during his time on Earth.
What is the significance of Lord Krishna and his birth?
Answer: Lord Krishna, an embodiment of love, wisdom, and playfulness, holds a significant place in Hinduism. His teachings, most notably found in the Bhagavad Gita, provide timeless guidance on leading a righteous life. His birth is considered a beacon of hope during tumultuous times. According to ancient scriptures, Krishna’s birth brought an end to the tyranny of his maternal uncle, King Kamsa, illustrating his role as a force of righteousness in the face of adversity. Additionally, Krishna’s pivotal role in the epic Mahabharata cements his status as a revered deity whose legacy extends beyond his birth.
Where is Krishna Janmashtami celebrated and why?
Answer: Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated fervently in various parts of India, especially in locations associated with Lord Krishna’s life, such as Mathura and Vrindavan. Devotees in these regions engage in elaborate rituals, devotional singing, and enactments of Krishna’s life stories. The festival’s observance extends to regions where Vaishnava communities reside, including Manipur, Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, and beyond. The festival acts as a unifying force, connecting devotees through their shared devotion to Lord Krishna. The festivity of Krishna Janmashtami is followed by Nandotsav, an event that adds an extra layer of jubilation to the celebrations.
As Krishna Janmashtami approaches, Hindus worldwide prepare to immerse themselves in the joyous commemoration of Lord Krishna’s birth, uniting in spirit while respecting the diversity of traditions and practices that define this auspicious festival.
What is Krishna Janmashtami 2023 Pooja Time?
- Krishna Janmashtami Date: Wednesday, September 6
- Nishita Puja Time: 23:57 to 00:42, September 07
- Duration 00 Hours 46 Mins
- Dahi Handi Thursday, September 7, 2023
- Parana Time after 16:14, Sep 07
- ISKCON Janmashtami Date Thursday, September 7, 2023
- Nishita Puja Time 23:56 to 00:42, September 08
- Duration 00 Hours 46 Mins
In conclusion, Krishna Janmashtami is a significant Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, a revered deity celebrated for his wisdom and compassion. This year, the observance of the festival falls on September 6 and 7, according to the distinct traditions of Vaishnava and Smarta sects within Hinduism. The alignment of Rohini Nakshatra and Ashtami Tithi on September 6 marks the day of celebration for Shri Krishna Janmashtami. As devotees come together to engage in rituals, prayers, and festivities, the festival serves as a reminder of the timeless teachings and virtues embodied by Lord Krishna. The celebration not only honors his divine birth but also fosters a sense of unity, devotion, and cultural richness among Hindus across the globe.
