Janmashtami: History, significance, celebrations, everything to know
The Hindu festival commemorating Lord Krishna's birth, Janmashtami, will be celebrated on August 26 this year. The day—also referred to as Krishna Janmashtami, Krishnashtami, or Gokulashtami—is marked by fasting, temple visits, prayers, and gorging on festive treats. Celebrations also include Dahi Handi, an event to reenact Lord Krishna's playful act of stealing makhan (butter). Here's all you need to know about this festival.
Lord Krishna's miraculous birth and escpae
Krishna, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu was born to Devaki and Vasudeva who were imprisoned by the former's brother and Mathura's evil king, Kansa. Kansa had killed their first six children, but at the time of the seventh child (Balaram), the fetus was mystically transferred to princess Rohini's womb. Krishna, upon birth, was smuggled out of the prison and sent to Gokul.
The exchange that led to Kansa's doom
Vasudeva crossed the Yamuna River carrying Krishna over his head in a basket. He delivered him to Nanda and Yashodha in Gokul, and returned to the prison with their newborn baby girl. Kansa tried to kill the baby girl but she transformed into Durga, and warned him about his imminent doom. Eventually, Krishna grew up in Vrindavan and killed Kansa. Hence, Janmashtami is celebrated.
Celebrations and all that jazz
People observe fast and adorn their homes with flowers. They even embellish Lord Krishna's idols with pretty dresses and accessories. Temples are lit beautifully and feature tableau's depicting the incidents of the deity's life. Delicious Janmashtami-special dishes are also cooked and offered. In many places, Dahi Handi is organized with men forming a pyramid and breaking a hanging earthen pot filled with makhan.
Significance of Dahi Handi
Lord Krishna, as a kid, was fond of white butter (makhan), curd, and milk. He often used to steal these offerings from villagers. Annoyed, they started complaining to his mother. She advised them to hide the butter in an earthen pot (handi) and keep it at a height. However, the idea failed as Krishna with his friends made a human pyramid to steal them.
Interesting facts about Janmashtami
Janmashtami is not only celebrated in India but also in countries including New Zealand, Singapore, the US, the UK, Poland, Canada, and Malaysia. The festival is counted as a public holiday in Bangladesh and is celebrated with all rituals and traditions in place. ISKCON, an organization devoted to Lord Krishna, is a driving force behind Janmashtami's global popularity.
