Celebration of Janmashtami 2024 to Honor Lord Krishna’s Birth

Janmashtami, a revered festival in India, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This auspicious occasion is set to be observed on August 26, 2024, which falls on a Monday, according to the Hindu calendar.

The festivities are expected to be particularly vibrant in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and in Vrindavan, where numerous events will commemorate the spirit of Krishna. The celebration also includes the popular ritual of Dahi Handi, which will take place on August 27, the day following Janmashtami.

Dahi Handi involves hanging an earthen pot filled with various items, including ghee, sweets, dahi, and butter, at a considerable height. Groups of people strive to reach the pot, breaking it as a symbolic representation of Lord Krishna’s playful and mischievous character.

The Ashtami Tithi, or the eighth lunar day, begins at 3:39 AM on August 26 and concludes at 2:19 AM on August 27. It is a significant time for devotees who seek to honor the legacy of Lord Krishna.

According to legends, Lord Krishna, known for his love of butter, was often seen stealing it from pots in his home. His mother, Yashoda, attempted to prevent this by hanging the butter pots, leading Krishna and his friends to form human pyramids to obtain the butter. This playful act has since evolved into the custom observed during Janmashtami.