Janmashtami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna is considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who incarnates on earth to restore cosmic order whenever there is a decline in dharma and an increase in adharma. Lord Krishna’s incarnation occurred during the Dwapar Yuga, the third of the four yugas in Hinduism.
The Janmashtami festival is marked by fasting, singing devotional songs, enacting scenes from Krishna’s life, and offering prayers at midnight, which is believed to be the time of his birth.
Pandit Nandkishore Mudgal, a famous astrologer from Mudgal Jyotish Kendra at Pagal Baba Ashram in Deoghar, stated that Janmashtami is celebrated every year on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. This year, the festival falls on August 26.
The auspicious timing to observe the rituals begins on August 25 at 9:20 pm and continues until 10:34 pm on August 26.
It is believed that couples wishing to have a son should worship Lord Krishna on this day with proper rituals to fulfil their wishes. On this auspicious day, Lord Krishna is dressed in beautiful clothes, and his favourite dishes are offered by the devotees.
Pandit Mudgal also mentioned that a wonderful coincidence will happen this year. On Janmashtami, to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna in his child form, Laddu Gopal, a cucumber is traditionally cut as part of the ritual. This year, the ceremony involves using a silver coin for this act. Additionally, the arrival of Laddu Gopal should be marked by blowing a conch, which is a vital aspect of worshipping Lord Vishnu.
Apart from this, devotees should follow these rituals:
– Decorate the puja room with fresh flowers, diyas and eco-friendly idols of Lord Krishna.
– Adorn Laddu Gopal with handmade garlands.
– Wear traditional clothes like dhotis and kurtas for men and sarees for women.
– Prepare bhog and other special dishes, including makhan and sweets, for Lord Krishna.
– Read sections from the Bhagavad Gita or other literature related to Krishna’s life and teachings.
– Chant the Hare Krishna mantra or other mantras dedicated to Lord Krishna.
– Stay awake until midnight when Lord Krishna is said to have been born.
– As the auspicious moment approaches, engage in prayers, meditation and devotional music.
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