Janamashtami, celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna, is one of the most vibrant and spiritually important festivals around India and the world. While the devotees fasting, sing hymns, and attend the midnight ceremony, many lessons of this divine festival make it even more attractive. There are some unknown facts about Krishna Janamashtami here that reveal the depth of tradition, culture and devotion related to this opportunity.
1. Krishna was born in jail at midnight
Lord Krishna was born in a prison cell in Mathura, where his parents, Devaki and Vasudev were taken captive by King Kansa. His birth on midnight stroke symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
2. Janamashtami is celebrated for two days
In many parts of India, Janamashtami is celebrated for two days. The first day is known as Krishna Jayati or Gokulashtami, while the second day is called Dahi Handy or Nandotsav, which is a symbol of Krishna’s happiness and playful nature.
3. Know different names all over India
While North India calls it Janamashtami, in Maharashtra it is celebrated as Sri Krishna Jyanthi in South India, and Makhan Handy in Gujarat. Each field has its traditions and unique ways to honor Krishna.
4. Fasting on Janamashtami is different from normal vrats
Devotees usually fast till midnight, it is only after the birth of Krishna and it is celebrated with special prayers and rituals. Instead of regular food, people often consume satvic things like fruits, milk and butter – Lord Krishna’s favorite.
5. Dahi elephant has a historical relationship
The popular tradition of Dahi Handy, where young men group forms a human pyramid to break a vessel of curd, reflects Krishna’s childhood mischief to steal butter and curd from the gopis. It has now become a competitive cultural program in Maharashtra.
6. ISKCON temples celebrated it grandly worldwide
From Vrindavan to New York and London, ISKCON temples hosted a grand ceremony with bhajans, Ra-lela performance and midnight aarti. Devotees from all over the world gather on this auspicious night to chant the Hare Krishna Mahamatra.
7. Bhagavad Gita is recited on Janamashtami
Many devotees listen to the way from the Gita to read day or the Bhagavad Gita. Since Krishna is the speaker of this sacred text, it is considered very auspicious to recite it on his birthday.
8. Special tinkers have been made showing the life of Krishna
Temples and houses often have a short model or jinks that reflect the views of Krishna’s life-his birth, childhood Leela, Govardhan Lifting and Ras-Lela. These performances are both devotional and educational.
9. Janamashtami is not only about devotion, but also community relations
This festival brings people together through cultural performance, devotional singing and group ceremonies. It strengthens the spirit of unity, joy and shared spirituality in communities.
10. Butter connection is more than a myth
Krishna’s love for butter is not just a childhood story – it is a symbol of simplicity, purity and essence of nutrition. This is the reason that butter and milk-based sweets like Makhan Misri and Panjiri are offered as enjoyment on Janamashtami.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)
