Janmashtami 2023: Date, Timings, And All That You Need To Know

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.

Janmashtami 2023 (Representational Image)

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New Delhi: 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. As the air becomes infused with hymns, incense, and the vibrant energy of celebration, Janmashtami brings together communities to honour the timeless teachings and enchanting persona of Lord Krishna.

On this day, worshippers fast and then the grand festivity of Shri Krishna Janmotsav unfolds during the night. This year, the Janmashtami celebration is graced with the presence of two propitious yogic alignments.

After Janmashtami, the celebration of Dahi Handi takes place. 

Janmashtami 2023: Date And Time

This year, Janmashtami is set to be commemorated on September 6. As per the Hindu calendar, the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the Bhadrapada month will commence on September 6 at 3:37PM and conclude at 4:14 AM on September 7.

Janmashtami 2023: Rohini Nakshatra Timings

For this year, the influence of the Rohini Nakshatra on Janmashtami initiates at 09:20 AM on September 6, and concludes at 10:25 AM on September 7. Both the Rohini Nakshatra and the Ashtami Tithi harmoniously align on the night of Krishna Janmotsav, on September 6.

Janmashtami 2023: Puja Muhurta

The best time for worshipping Shri Krishna begins at 11:57 PM on September 6. The momentous occasion of Lord Krishna's birth and the opportunity for worship extend until 12:42 midnight.

Janmashtami 2023 Enriched by 2 Auspicious Yogas:

The day of Janmashtami graces with the presence of Ravi Yoga and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga. The Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga throughout Janmashtami bestows the potential to fulfill the devotees' wishes. Endeavors undertaken during this auspicious yoga are believed to be successful. The Ravi Yoga commences at 6:01 AM and persists until 9:20 AM. Offering homage to the Sun God during this yoga is believed to yield considerable benefits.

Janmashtami 2023: Fasting Time

The observance of the Janmashtami fast commences following the birth anniversary of Shri Krishna. This year, Janmashtami's Paran can be performed post-midnight at 12:42. If Janmashtami is observed at your location after sunrise the following day, the celebration can be embraced at 6:02 AM on September 7.

Janmashtami 2023: 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 center 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 endeavor 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.