Janmashtami or Krishnastami is considered as the birthday of Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Krishna is the eighth incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu, have been born on this auspicious day. As per the myth, Lord Krishna appeared in this world on the 8th day of Krishna Pakshya in the month of Shravana around midnight to terminate the devil King Kansha. This year, according to Gregorian calendar Krishnashtami or Janmashtami will take place on August 26, 2024.
Brief History :-
The history of Janmashtami timed back to thousand years. If someone starts exploring the history and foundation of the festival, she or he will end up listening end numbers of folklores related to Lord Krishna and his birth. There are also quite a few legends related with this festival.
It is believed that Lord Krishna was one of the most important Hindu Gods alongside Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. Commonly, it is believed that Lord Krishna took birth for killing the unreligious demon king of Mathura, Kansha, to establish a kingdom of peace, tranquility, affluence, religion and believes on earth and to broaden the significance of brotherhood and humankind.
In the Holy Bhagvad Gita, according to Arjuna’s preaching, it is stated that, “Whenever the balance of the universe is disturbed by external interference from any of its parts, then I reveal myself as the Power of eternal balancing. For the protection of those who are in harmony, and the rectification of everything disharmonious, I incarnate myself at every juncture of time.”
Consequently, according to Bhagvad Gita, it is implicated that the appearance of God will come back once again on earth to establish peace, to maintain religion and prosperity in civilization. According to several Historians the birth of Lord Krishna dated to the ‘Dwapar Yug’ and he was born around 3227 BC.
According to Gregorian calendar, Lord Krishna appeared in this world on the 8th day of Krishna Pakshya in the month of Shravana. The day before his birth revealed that he was a special child and he’ll be the savior of mankind. Son of Kansa’s sister Devaki and Vasudeva, Krishna was in Gokul throughout his childhood and adolescence. However, many people believed that Krishna was an appearance of God and ever since then, the people of Gokul celebrated the birth of Krishna as a day of fortune.
The Festival :-
This particular Krishna Janmashtami festival is observed with great dedication in several parts of the country, especially in Mathura, which is known as Krishna’s Birthplace, and in Vrindavan. The devotees observe fast with great devotion for the whole day and night. While listening to his legendary stories, devotees recite hymns from the Bhagwat Gita; chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
Krishna Janmashtami is considered very auspicious. The night before fasting devotee takes light meals. On that particular day around midnight, people execute Krishna Janmashtami puja with all the rituals, customs, puja items and traditions. Puja is performed by decorating idols of Krishna with new clothes and jewelry. Bathing of the baby idol of Lord Krishna, singing of Krishna prayer, ringing of bells, and ‘aartis’ are very significant part of Krishna Janmashtami festival.
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