All about Janmashtami: History, importance, significant rituals, Dahi handi.

Janmashtami is an important Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most popular and beloved gods in Sanatan Dharma. This vibrant and spiritually charged celebration is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion by millions of people worldwide. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of Janmashtami, exploring everything about Janmashtami.

Why and when is Janmashtami celebrated?

Jhanmastmi is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It marks the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the Preserver of the Universe. The date varies every year according to the Gregorian calendar, but it usually falls in the months of August or September.

Krishna's birth took place at midnight in Mathura, in a prison cell, where his parents, Vasudeva and Devaki, were held captive by his tyrannical uncle, King Kansa. This event is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil, as Krishna's birth ultimately led to the downfall of Kansa's oppressive regime.

This auspicious day is considered the divine appearance of Lord Krishna on Earth, and it holds immense spiritual significance.

Importance of Janmashtami.

Janmashtami is an important festival that holds great cultural and spiritual significance for millions of Hindus around the world. It celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is seen as a symbol of divine love, compassion, and wisdom. His teachings and life story continue to inspire and guide people from all walks of life, reminding them of the importance of faith, devotion, and selfless service.  Devotees believe that observing Janmashtami with sincerity can bring blessings, protection, and spiritual growth.

This auspicious day is not only a religious festival but also a cultural extravaganza. In India, it is celebrated with grandeur and fervour. Temples and homes are beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and intricate rangoli designs. Devotees dress up as Lord Krishna and Radha, reenacting various episodes from Krishna's life, especially the playful and mischievous aspects that are so endearing.

Puja during Janmshtami.

The midnight hour is believed to be the time of Lord Krishna's birth and holds special significance. Devotees gather at temples or in their homes to perform rituals and offer prayers during this time. If you are performing rituals at home, here's a concise guide on how to perform Janmashtami Puja.

• Clean the home.
Begin by cleaning your home thoroughly to create a clean and sacred space for the puja.
• Purify the ambience.
Enhance the surroundings by lighting divine agarbatti (incense sticks) to purify the air and create a spiritual atmosphere. The fragrance of incense is believed to attract positive energy.

Also See: HOW THE DIVINE FRAGRANCES OF INCENSE STICKS CAN HELP YOU WITH SPIRITUALITY?

• Decorate Jhula.
Decorate a jhula (swing) with flowers and decorative items for placing kanha in it.
• Chant Bhajans and Mantras.
Chant bhajans (devotional songs) and mantras dedicated to Lord Krishna. You can find specific Janmashtami bhajans and mantras for this occasion.
• Midnight abhishek.
As soon as the clock strikes midnight, begin with holy rituals. Place the lord Krihsna’s idol in dish and perform Abhishek by slowly pouring panchamrut. Immediately after this pour water(preferably gangajal). Genly wipe off the idol. Put clean and exquisite clothes to make little Krishna ready for celebrations.
• Perform Aarti.
Perform aarti to worship Shree Krishna. Use a traditional aarti plate with a diya (lamp) and a camphor or ghee-soaked wick to offer the light to the deity.
• Offer Dhoop.
Light dhoop sticks and offers the fragrant smoke to the deity as a mark of respect and devotion. Also, the fragrant smoke is believed to carry your prayers to the divine.
• Serve Prasad.
Prepare prasad (offerings) for Lord Krishna. Ensure that the prasad does not contain garlic or onion, as these are usually avoided in Hindu rituals. You can offer sweets like kheer , fruits, and other vegetarian items as prasad.

Also See: WHY DESSERTS ARE A SPECIAL TREAT AND HOW TO MAKE THE EASILY?

• Read Krishna's Stories.
It's also common to read or narrate stories from Lord Krishna's life during the puja to reflect on his teachings and leelas (divine actions).
• Offer Love and Devotion.
Above all, approach the puja with a pure heart filled with love and devotion for Lord Krishna. Seek his blessings and guidance in your life.

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Dahi Handi.

One of the most popular traditions associated with Jhanmastmi is the "Dahi Handi" ritual, which takes place in the state of Maharashtra and other western states signifying Krishna ji’s love for butter. To satisfy butter cravings, Lord Krishna often formed a human pyramid with his friends in childhood to steal it from the higher altitudes.

To celebrate this tradition, young people form pyramids to reach and break a clay pot filled with curd, butter, and other goodies, which is hung at a great height. This reenacts Lord Krishna's mischievous childhood. It's a thrilling spectacle that draws large crowds and adds an element of fun and excitement to the festival.

Summing up:

Janmashtami serves as a reminder of the enduring values that Lord Krishna embodied, making it a cherished and eagerly awaited occasion for people of all ages and backgrounds. It's a reminder of the divine presence in our lives and an opportunity to strengthen our spiritual connection. It is a time when families and communities come together to purify their hearts and homes, seek divine blessings, and revel in the cultural festivities.

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Celebrate this Jhanmasmi with devotion and chant with a whole heart - JAY SHREE KRISHNA!!