janmashtami

Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm. Devotees observe fasts that last until midnight, the believed birth hour of Krishna. Homes and temples are decorated, and Jhankis (tableaus) depicting scenes from Krishna’s life are displayed. Devotional songs and Bhajans are sung, while priests or family members read from the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana. At midnight, an Abhishekam (ceremonial bath) of Krishna idols is performed with milk, curd, honey, and ghee, followed by adorning the idol with new clothes and ornaments. In some regions, the lively Dahi Handi tradition is observed, where teams form human pyramids to break pots of curd hung high, symbolizing Krishna’s childhood mischief. Finally, devotees offer special prasad and break their fast after the rituals.