Janmashtami 2024 - Significance of the Festival, Date, and Krishna's Story

In Indian festivals, Janmashtami is a special celebration that fills the atmosphere with joy and devotion. The entire country is immersed in the worship of Lord Krishna. Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the Bhadrapada month. Lord Krishna was born as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is revered as a playful child, a lover, a friend, a statesman, a teacher, and God.

When is Krishna Janmashtami?

First, let's discuss the date for Janmashtami in 2024. This year, the festival will be celebrated on Monday, August 26, 2024. It is believed that Lord Krishna was born approximately 5,500 years ago. In Gujarat, Janmashtami is celebrated during the month of Savan. Places like Mathura, Vrindavan, Jagannath Puri, Dwarka, and Badrinath celebrate Janmashtami with great fervor.

Krishna Janmashtami Date: August 26, Monday, 2024
Puja Timing: From 11:59 PM to 12:44 AM

The Story of Krishna's Birth

It is said that when adharma (unrighteousness) increased on Earth, Lord Vishnu took birth in human form. This was his eighth incarnation. Lord Krishna was born not just to kill Kansa but to re-establish dharma (righteousness) on Earth, a task he accomplished alongside the Pandavas. Krishna was born in the prison of Kansa in Mathura. During a heavy rainstorm, little Krishna was taken to Gokul, where he was raised by Mata Yashoda and Nandji. As he grew up, he journeyed to Mathura to defeat Kansa, freeing his parents and grandfather from captivity. His real journey began after that. He went to Ujjain to study at the Sandipani Ashram. When the Kauravas started their tyranny, he supported the Pandavas. On the battlefield, he imparted the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. He defeated many demons and cruel kings, guiding people towards peace and righteousness.

How is Janmashtami Celebrated?

In most parts of the country, Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People observe fasts and visit Krishna temples for darshan (viewing of the deity). Many temples hold special aarti (devotional song) at midnight. During this time, Krishna is bathed and worshipped with Panchopachara (five offerings). Homes engage in the recitation of the Gita, Shrimad Bhagavat, and Bhagavata Purana. Many chant mantras like "Hare Ram, Hare Krishna" and "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya." In South India, this festival is known as Gokul Ashtami, with various rituals dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna.

How to Worship Lord Krishna

On Janmashtami, bathe the idol of Krishna or Bal Gopal with water, milk, yogurt, honey, and Panchamrit. Dress Krishna in yellow garments. If there is an idol of Radha, adorn her as well. Offer sweets as bhog (offering) to the Lord. Light a lamp made of pure ghee in front of him. Recite the Vishnu Sahasranama at home. After the special aarti at midnight, observe a fast.

Krishna Worship for Planetary Peace

It is said that worshiping Lord Krishna reduces the effects of Pitru Dosh (ancestors’ curses). Vedic astrology suggests that if there is a Pitru Dosh in one’s birth chart, one should read the Bhagavad Gita. Additionally, chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" 1,008 times for remedies concerning the Guru planet. This mantra is often used in Vedic astrology to alleviate various planetary afflictions.

Other Mantras for Lord Krishna

Om Govindaya Namah
Om Kleem Krishnaya Namah