Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, an embodiment of divine wisdom and love. This auspicious occasion, observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha in the Bhadrapada month, holds deep significance for millions of devotees around the world. On this day, worshippers fast and then the grand festivity of Shri Krishna Janmotsav unfolds during the night. This year, it is the 5251st birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.


ALSO READ: When Is Mahalaya 2024? Know On Which Vehicle Maa Durga Is Arriving This Year, And Durga Puja Dates


Janmashtami 2024: Date And Time


This year, Krishna Janmashtami falls on Monday, August 26, 2024. The timings and shubh muhurat are as follows:



  • Nishita Puja Time: 11:16 PM to 12:01 AM, Aug 27

  • Duration - 00 Hours 45 Mins


Dahi Handi will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 27, 2024


Parana as per Dharma Shastra:



  • Parana Time - After 03:38 PM, Aug 27

  • On Parana Day Rohini Nakshatra End Time - 03:38 PM

  • On Parana Day Ashtami got over before Sunrise


Alternate Parana as per Dharma Shastra:



  • Parana Time - After 05:18 AM, Aug 27

  • Parana can also be done on the next day sunrise after Deva Puja, Visarjan etc.


Ashtami Tithi date and time:



  • Chandrodaya Moment - 10:50 PM Krishna Dashami

  • Ashtami Tithi Begins - 03:39 AM on Aug 26, 2024

  • Ashtami Tithi Ends - 02:19 AM on Aug 27, 2024Rohini Nakshatra Begins - 03:55 PM on Aug 26, 2024

  • Rohini Nakshatra Ends - 03:38 PM on Aug 27, 2024


Janmashtami 2024: Rituals



  • Fasting: Devotees abstain from consuming grains, cereals, or lentils as a part of their observance of Janmashtami. The fast remains unbroken until the midnight aarti, a sacred prayer ritual.

  • Puja and Aarti: Elaborate prayer ceremonies, known as pujas, are conducted within homes and temples. Devotees ornament idols of Lord Krishna, presenting offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets, accompanied by the singing of devotional songs. The ritual of aarti is performed as an expression of reverence.

  • Dahi Handi: Particularly in regions like Maharashtra, the custom of Dahi Handi takes centre stage. This tradition involves suspending a pot of curd (dahi) at a height, prompting groups of young men to form human pyramids in a collective endeavour to break it. Symbolically, this practice embodies the lively and playful essence of Lord Krishna.

  • Swings (Jhulas): Swings, adorned with flowers and leaves, are artfully erected in households and temples. These swings symbolize the exuberant spirit of Krishna's early years, evoking the joy inherent to his childhood.

  • Ras Leela: In certain locales, devotional enactments called Ras Leela portray the profound love shared between Radha and Krishna. Through dance and drama, devotees reenact pivotal episodes from Krishna's life, vividly capturing the essence of his divine journey.

  • Midnight Celebrations: The moment of Lord Krishna's birth is traditionally believed to have been at midnight. To commemorate this sacred event, devotees remain vigilant until the stroke of midnight, immersing themselves in prayers, bhajans (devotional songs), and the exploration of Krishna's life anecdotes.