If you’re a fan of Indian culture and the stories of Lord Krishna, then you have probably celebrated Janmashtami in your lifetime! This festival is held to celebrate the birth of Krishna, who is considered one of the Supreme Lords in Hinduism.
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the 8th of the Hindu calendar month of Bhadra (the month of love). This festival celebrates the birth of Krishna. In this article, I will tell you all about Krishna Janmashtami History, Date, and Time including why we celebrate it and how it’s celebrated in India.
What is Krishna Janmashtami Festival?
Krishna Janmashtami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Supreme Lord Krishna. It is typically celebrated on the eighth day of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana, which falls in August or September. Krishna Janmashtami is a very special occasion for Hindus all around the world, and many take part in special religious ceremonies and festivities to mark the occasion. On Janmashtami, people dress up as Krishna and Radha, decorate their homes, and prepare special foods. They also participate in special puja ceremonies and sing devotional songs.
History of Krishna Janmashtami
The origins of Krishna Janmashtami can be traced back to the ancient Vedic texts. In these texts, Krishna is described as an incarnation of Vishnu, the supreme god in Hinduism. Vishnu is said to have taken the form of Krishna to kill the demon king Kansa and restore dharma (order) to the world. Over time, Krishna Janmashtami has become one of the most popular festivals in India. It is celebrated with great fanfare in temples and homes across the country. On this day, devotees offer prayers, sing devotional songs, fast, and perform various rituals.
The ancient scriptures like Bhagavata Purana and Markandeya Purana are among those which include accounts of Krishna’s birth and childhood. Devotees believe that fasting (upavasa), praying (japa), bhajans (singing devotional songs), and meditation on Krishna on this day will help them attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
Importance of Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami has great religious significance, and it is believed that by worshipping Lord Krishna on this day, one can attain moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The festival is also a time for celebrating the divine love between Lord Krishna and His devotees. On this day, Hindus offer prayers and perform various rituals to please Lord Krishna. They also fast and sing devotional songs in His honor.
Krishna Janmashtami is an important festival not only for Hindus but also for all those who believe in the power of Supreme Lord Krishna. By celebrating this festival, we can all remember His divine grace and mercy which can lead us to the path of righteousness and truth.
Why do we celebrate Janmashtami?
Lord Krishna is considered to be one of the most popular and revered deities in Hinduism. He is known for his wisdom, compassion, and strength. Lord Krishna was born in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.
There are many reasons why we celebrate Janmashtami. One reason is that it is a great way to remember and honor the birth of Lord Krishna. Another reason is that it helps us to connect with our own spirituality and inner divinity.
Janmashtami is also a time for fasting, prayer, and meditation. We can use this time to reflect on our own lives and how we can improve ourselves. It is also a time to celebrate the joys and blessings in our lives.
How to Celebrate Krishna Janmashtami?
Krishna Janmashtami is a special Hindu festival celebrated with fasting, feasting, and devotional singing and dancing. Many Hindus also decorate their homes and temples with flowers and lights.
If you want to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, there are a few things you can do. First, you can fast on the day of the festival. This is done to commemorate Krishna’s birth and to show your devotion to him. You can also break your fast with a special meal of fruits, vegetables, and sweets.
Another way to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami is by decorating your home or temple. You can hang lights and flowers around your house or put up pictures of Krishna in your temple. Many people also sing devotional songs and dance in honor of Krishna on this day.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, it is sure to be a special and meaningful day!
5 Destination you should visit in Krishna Janmashtami
The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show all over the country, but there are some places that offer a more special and authentic experience. Here are some of the top spots you should visit during Krishna Janmashtami:
1. Mathura:
This is the place where Lord Krishna was born and it is said that Mathura is the spiritual birthplace of all mankind. Its located around 20 km from Vrindavan and it is where Krishna once ruled as a king. The city comes alive during Janmashtami with devotees flocking to temples to catch a glimpse of baby Krishna.
2. Gokul:
Gokul is another place closely associated with Lord Krishna. It is said that he spent his childhood here and it was in Gokul that he performed many of his miracles. During Janmashtami, devotees come here to bathe in the holy Yamuna river and visit temples dedicated to Lord Krishna.
3. Vrindavan:
Vrindavan is where Lord Krishna spent his youth and it is said that he performed his famous Ras Leela here. The city is filled with temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and during Janmashtami, devotees flock to Vrindavan from all over the country.
4. Jagannath, Puri:
The temple town of Puri in Odisha is another important pilgrimage center for devotees during Janmashtami, who come here to offer prayers at the famous Jagannath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. The festival culminates with a grand Rath Yatra in which deities are pulled on huge chariots.
5. Dwarka, Gujarat
Krishna established Dwarka, along with his elder brother Balram, as the ‘Entryway to salvation’. Lord Krishna’s birthday is celebrated at the Dwarkadheesh Temple with gold, diamonds, topaz, and different precious pearls. There is no better place for lovers to get the favors of this powerful city than in this wonderful city.
Krishna Janmashtami Date 2022?
Janmashtami falls on the Ashtami Tithi, the eighth day of the dark half of the lunar month of Shravana. In 2022, Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 18.
Activities that can do on Krishna Janmashtami
Here are some creative activities that can do on Krishna Janmashtami
- On Krishna Janmashtami, dress up as Radha or Krishna
- One way to decorate your home inside and out for Janmashtami is with a handi (curd pot). This is a great way to mark the celebration.
- Welcome Krishna with a Footstep Rangoli – Janmashtami decoration ideas at home
- Create a Krishna village scene – Janmashtami decoration ideas at home
- Host a Dahi Handi Indoors
- Decorate a Bansuri / Flute
- Create Peacock Feather Party favours
- Make a Beautiful Kolam Card – Janmashtami Art & Craft Idea
- Create a Krishna Jhula
- Visit nearby your local ISKCON Temple
Conclusions
Krishna Janmashtami is one of the most popular festivals in India, and it is celebrated with great fanfare and enthusiasm. It is a day to remember the birth of Lord Krishna, and people from all walks of life come together to celebrate this special occasion. If you have never experienced the Krishna Janmashtami festival before, then I highly recommend that you do so at least once in your lifetime. Plan your Krishna Janmashtami festival trip on any above destinations It gives you a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
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