Janmashtami (Smarta) in India

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Shravana or Bhadrapada (August–September). The Smarta tradition observes Janmashtami on the same date as other Vaishnava traditions if it falls on Rohini Nakshatra.

History

The festival commemorates the earthly appearance of Krishna, who is considered one of Hinduism's most beloved and divine figures. According to Hindu mythology, he was born at midnight in the Dwapara Yuga (over 5000 years ago) to Devaki and Vasudeva in a prison cell in Mathura, where they were held captive by Kansa, Devaki's brother.

Traditions

• Fasting: Devotees often fast until midnight, which is believed to be the time when Krishna was born.
• Prayers and Bhajans: Temples and homes are decorated, and bhajans (devotional songs) are sung. Special prayers are offered at midnight.
• Dahi Handi: In some regions like Maharashtra, Dahi Handi competitions take place where teams form human pyramids to reach and break open a pot filled with yogurt or buttermilk suspended high above the ground; this celebrates Krishna's playful and mischievous side.
• Raslila: Dramatic reenactments of episodes from Krishna's life, especially his childhood, known as Raslilas are performed.
• Decorations: Homes and temples are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and images of Krishna’s infancy.
• Distribution of Sweets: Sweets made from milk products like 'Peda' and 'Panjiri' which were favorites of Lord Krishna are distributed among friends and family.

Activities

People engage in singing devotional songs, reading scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita or Bhagavata Purana which narrate Krishna's life story. Many observe a day full of spiritual reflection and undertake charitable acts. Dance-dramas based on Krishna’s life called Raslilas are popular performances during this time.

Janmashtami provides an opportunity for communal harmony where people across various social str