Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Ashtami, is a special festival in Hinduism. It celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have been born on this auspicious day to get rid of the evil in the world. The festival is marked by vibrant celebrations, religious activities, and cultural events that reflect the deep admiration and connection with Krishna’s heavenly presence.
When Does Krishna Janmashtami Fall?
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadra. This usually occurs in late August or early September on the Gregorian calendar. The date changes each year according to the moon cycles.
The Myth of Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna’s life is noted in the Maharath, the Purnas, and Bhagavata Purans. In the old mythology, it is said Lord Krishna was born in the prison of Kansa, the tyrant king of Mathura. Lord Krishna is the eighth son of Devika (mother) and Vasudeva (father). Krishna was born to get rid of evil from the world and protect life on Earth. His birth was the hope for world peace. So, he who had to fulfill this prophecy needed to escape the prison and get away from Kamsa. Vasudeva miraculously escaped the prison and went to Gokuldham so that the young Krishna could be raised safely. He was then given to his foster parents, Yashoda (mother) and Nanda (father). The festival celebrates Krishna’s divine role as a savior, his playful youth, and his teachings that have had a profound impact on Hindu philosophy.
How is Krishna Janmashtami Celebrated?
The celebration of Krishna Janmashtami is blended by devotional practices, cultural activities, and community gatherings. Here’s a detailed look at how the festival is celebrated:
- Rituals and Worship:
During Janmashtami devotees fast, which is maintained until midnight, the time of Krishna’s birth. Many people only eat fruits and dairy products as part of their worship. The fast is broken with a special meal once the clock strikes midnight, marking Krishna’s birth.
The end of the festival is the midnight celebration which is to honor Krishna’s birth. Temples and houses are beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and Krishna pictures. Devotees come together to praise lord Krishna by singing bhajans and performing aarti.
- Krishna’s Birth Scene:
Many communities organize plays and drams of Krishna’s birth and early life, known as “Rasa Lila” or “Krishna Leela.” These plays slow various episodes from Krishna’s life, including his miraculous deeds, his interactions with his devotees, and his role as a divine lover.
- Cultural Festivities:
Krishna Janmashtami in Nepal is celebrated by playing traditional music and dance. Music and dances, including “Rasa” and “Deuda,” are performed to celebrate Krishna’s life and teachings. The celebration is marked by traditional delicacies such as khir (rice pudding) and sweets which are shared with the community and loved ones. These feasts provide an opportunity for social connection and celebration.
Modern-Day Celebrations
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with a combination of traditional and modern rituals in Nepal. Traditional practices, such as fasting, midnight prayers, and devotional songs, remain central to the festivities, but there is a focus on community engagement and environmental awareness. Younger generations regularly engage in activities such as Krishna Leela performances and social feasts, which contribute to preserving the cultural legacy. Furthermore, the festival often involves acts of charity and social service, which reflect lord Krishna’s teachings of kindness and selflessness, making it both spiritually enriching and socially meaningful.
Timeless Traditions
Krishna Janmashtami in Nepal is a timeless tradition. It is a colorful and spiritually encouraging festival that combines deep religious devotion with vibrant cultural celebrations. The festival’s rich traditions, which include fasting, religious rituals, acts of lord Krishna’s childhood, and community feasts, represent the timeless significance of Lord Krishna’s birth and teachings. Krishna Janmashtami continues to be an inspiration for the generation to hope and to revive the teaching of lord Krishna. It is widely observed, demonstrating Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy.
