Krishna Janmashtami, the festival marking the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth son of Devaki, born in the prison of Mathura under the tyrannical reign of Kansa, is a momentous occasion for devotees of Vishnu. Celebrated with profound reverence and spiritual fervour, Janmashtami is not merely a commemorative event but an expression of divine grace and redemption.

Date and Significance

In 2024, Krishna Janmashtami will fall on August 26. This auspicious day is revered for its spiritual significance as it marks the appearance of Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu, who is believed to dispel sorrow, eliminate faults, and alleviate poverty for those who worship him. Devotees observe the festival with great dedication, adorning their homes with elaborate decorations and engaging in devotional activities.

Celebrations in Vrindavan and Mathura

8️⃣ days to go for Sri Krishna Janmashtami 2024!Behold the splendour of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, adorned in divine grace.For details of the festivities,visit: https://t.co/rpzTi53O2I#littlekrishna #krishnajanmasthami #iskconbangalore #harekrishna pic.twitter.com/Rc7VZ1nU2u

— ISKCON Bangalore (@ISKCONBangalore) August 17, 2024

The cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, are renowned for their grand celebrations. In these sacred locales, the festivities will unfold with remarkable splendour. The Banke Bihari Temple, among others, will attract throngs of devotees eager to participate in the vibrant celebrations that fill the air with divine energy and devotion.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami | 9 Days To Go | 26th August 2024 @ISKCONNVCCPune#janmashtami2024 #srikrishnajanmashtami2024#gokulashtami2024 #gokulashtami #janmashtami#Krishna #Vrindavan #Gokul #Mathura #srikrishna#ISKCONNVCC #ISKCONNVCCPune #ISKCONPune #ISKCON pic.twitter.com/YOadaxqfXe

— ISKCON NVCC Pune (@ISKCONPune) August 17, 2024

Janmashtami 2024 Puja Muhurat

For those planning their worship and celebrations, the following timings are essential:

✨Sri Krishna Janmashtami✨ | 10 Days To Go🙏 | 26th August 2024 @iskconvicc pic.twitter.com/y68igsARdx

— ISKCON Varanasi (@iskconvicc) August 16, 2024

Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami Tithi Begins: August 26, 2024, at 03:39 AM

Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami Tithi Ends: August 27, 2024, at 02:19 AM

Rohini Nakshatra Begins: August 26, 2024, at 03:55 PM

Rohini Nakshatra Ends: August 27, 2024, at 01:38 PM

Krishna Puja Time: August 27, 2024, from 12:06 AM to 12:51 AM

Midnight Moment: August 27, 2024, at 12:28 AM

Chandrodaya Time: 11:41 PM

Vrat Parana Time: After 03:38 PM on August 27

Night Parana Time: After 12:51 AM on August 27, following Krishna Puja

Observing the Janmashtami Vrat

The observance of Janmashtami Vrat involves both spiritual and physical discipline. Devotees begin their preparations the day prior by eschewing tamasic foods—such as garlic, onions, eggplant, and radish—and adhering to a sattvic diet, which fosters purity and devotion. On Janmashtami, it is customary to rise early during Brahma Muhurta, take a ritual bath, and don clean clothing.

The fast traditionally includes abstaining from solid foods, with many opting for fruits or water. Devotees immerse themselves in Krishna’s worship throughout the day, culminating in a midnight celebration of Krishna’s divine birth. Offerings of bhog (food offerings) are made to the deity, and the fast is concluded on the following day after the Vrat Parana.

- PTC PUNJABI