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Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, considered the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Shravana or Bhadrapad, which typically aligns with August or September on the Gregorian calendar.
The festival marks the birth of Krishna who was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in a prison cell in the ancient city of Mathura. His uncle, King Kansa, wanted to kill him due to a prophecy that he would be slain by Devaki's eighth son. Shortly after his birth, Krishna was secretly carried across the Yamuna River to Gokul where he was raised by his foster parents, Yashoda and Nand.
Fasting: Devotees observe a fast from sunrise on Janmashtami until midnight when it is believed that Krishna was born.
Dahi Handi: In Maharashtra and some other regions, this lively event involves forming human pyramids to reach and break an earthen pot (Handi) filled with buttermilk (Dahi), hung high above ground level. This tradition emulates Krishna's childhood act of stealing butter.
Rasa Lila or Krishnaleela: Reenactments of episodes from Krishna's life are performed depicting his love for Radha and his playful deeds.
Devotional Singing and Dancing: Bhajans (devotional songs) praising Lord Krishna are sung, accompanied by music and dance.
Decorations: Temples and homes are elaborately decorated with flowers, lights, and images of baby Krishna’s cradle.
Prayers and Recitations: Scriptures like Bhagavad Gita or Bhagavata Purana which narrate the life story of Krishna are read or recited.
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