Krishna Janmashtami (Krishnashtami), the joyous celebration of Shri Krishna’s birth, is a festival that resonates deeply with millions around the world. Characterized by fervent devotion, vibrant rituals, and profound spiritual significance, Janmashtami is more than just a celebration—it is an awakening and a source of inspiration for countless devotees. The uniqueness of this festival lies in its wide acceptance. Learned Scholars and uneducated masses love it equally as this has lessons and joy for both. Fasting, Chanting and Dahi Handi celebrations mark this festival.
Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu beautifully expresses, “Janmashtami is a grand festival. It marks the day when the transcendental Brahma—the formless, complete, omnipresent, and supreme Lord of all gods and the universe—incarnated as a human child. Through divine plays, he enriched human joy, sweetness, and consciousness with the nectar of Brahma.”
Let’s move on to discover why we have been celebrating this festival for more than 5000 years.
Krishna janmashtami (Krishnashtami): Birth of Shri Krishna
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, commemorates the birth of Shri Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu scriptures, Shri Krishna was born on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September). Devotees regard His birth as a divine intervention to eradicate evil and restore dharma (righteousness).
Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu beautifully explains the significance of Shri Krishna’s birth:
“On the night of Krishna Paksha Ashtami in the month of Bhadrapada, as rain poured down, Vasudeva and Devaki were imprisoned. Their relatives were engulfed in fear, sorrow, and oppression. It was at midnight, amid the darkness, that Shri Krishna chose to descend. He brought light to those immersed in darkness, joy to a grieving society, and sweetness to those in despair.”
Symbolically, Devaki represents pure intellect, while Vasudeva embodies sattvik brilliance. When an individual attains both purity of intellect and sattvik illumination, the divine presence of Shri Krishna can manifest in their heart. This divine manifestation has the power to dispel all troubles and despair, bringing light, joy, and harmony into life.
Krishna janmashtami(Krishnashtami) : A Saga of Festivities on birth of Shri Krishna
Janmashtami represents a grand saga of festivities celebrated by people around the world. This vibrant festival is filled with events that inspire positive energy, enthusiasm, and spirituality. Customs and traditions that foster community bonding and devotion mark the celebrations. Devotees adorn temples beautifully with lights and flowers. They come together to sing bhajans (devotional songs), and perform enactments depicting the life of Shri Krishna.
A unique aspect of Janmashtami is the prasad of panjiri. Devotees prepare it from coriander powder, sugar, and dry fruits. This offering is not only spiritually significant but also serves a practical purpose, helping the body adapt to upcoming seasonal changes. Alongside panjiri, the festival features a variety of seasonal fruits and sweets, enhancing the joyous celebrations.
Dahi Handi : Remembering the sweet memories of Shri Krishna
The lively and exciting custom of Dahi Handi is observed on Janmashtami, the day that Shri Krishna was born. This event represents Krishna’s fun and mischievous persona as Makhan Chor (butter thief). Devotees widely celebrate throughout India, particularly in Maharashtra. The cruel king Kansa used to take away all the butter for his cruel army men, depriving the poor kids of butter. Shri Krishna revolted against this and started stealing butter and feeding the children. Devotees celebrate Dahi Handi to commemorate this revolution.
The handi (earthen pot) loaded with curd, butter, or milk hangs at a considerable height. In order to break it, groups of young men known as Govindas build human pyramids. This behavior symbolizes Shri Krishna’s boyhood pranks of stealing butter from hanging pots in Gokul. Players happily tackle obstacles like slick surfaces and water splashes from bystanders. It fosters solidarity, strength, and collaboration. Along with religious ceremonies, Dahi Handi is a community event that attracts sizable crowds. It cultivates a sense of community.
This event is a spectacle of teamwork, coordination, and camaraderie. The spirit of overcoming obstacles and achieving success through unity, perseverance, and determination embodies it.
Lessons on Krishna janmashtami (Krishnashtami): Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu
Bapuji has shared in his discourses that the birth of Shri Krishna conveys a profound message: despite facing numerous obstacles, challenges, and difficulties, one must remain steadfast on the path to achieve their goals. Janmashtami serves as a source of inspiration for seekers aiming to elevate their spiritual journey. It motivates individuals to pursue their ultimate purpose with unwavering determination and faith, overcoming all troubles along the way.
Bapuji also emphasizes that Janmashtami is one of the four Maharatris (great nights). Engaging in night vigils, meditation, chanting, or any auspicious acts on this sacred occasion yields manifold benefits. This festival acts as a spiritual catalyst, enhancing excellence in one’s spiritual practices and assisting seekers on their journey towards higher consciousness.
Furthermore, Janmashtami serves as a timeless reminder of the invaluable lessons imparted by Shri Krishna through His divine life and teachings. His profound discourses on karma (action), dharma (duty), bhakti (devotion), and moksha (liberation) provide a universal framework for living a righteous and fulfilling life. These teachings transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, offering a path to self-realization, inner peace, and ultimate liberation.
Unique Learnings from Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2025 (Krishnashtami) along with Jubilant Dahi Handi tradition
Krishna Janmashtami (Krishnashtami): An Inspiration
Bapuji mentions that the life of Shri Krishna serves as an inspiration for all. He says, “Incorporate the daily practices of Shri Krishna into your life. Shri Krishna often disengaged from all thoughts and rested in equanimity. Practice this too—take moments in the morning, afternoon, or even during work and conversations to pause and cultivate a state of balance.”
He further explains that the world is troubled by oppression (as seen with Kansa), time-bound limitations, and ignorance. Therefore, manifesting Krishna-like qualities in society is both necessary and possible. Each heart has the potential for a Krishna-avatar, and it is essential for transformation. Shri Krishna defeated Kansa, defied the constraints of time, and dispelled ignorance by imparting wisdom to Arjuna and his loved ones.
While a great warrior who flees a battlefield is often labeled a coward, we revere and celebrate one who appears to flee for the greater good of protecting thousands and preserving culture, as seen in the example of ‘Ranchhodray.’ Such an extraordinary avatar!
Shri Krishna embodies the epitome of generosity, modesty, humility, and compassion. He did not hesitate to nurse Arjuna’s horse, nor did he hesitate to clean the slippers of saints. His life is a lesson for everyone, regardless of religion, and if we internalize his teachings, this world can become a more peaceful place to live.
Conclusion
In essence, Janmashtami is not just a festival commemorating the birth of a historical figure; it is a celebration of divinity, wisdom, and eternal truth. It is an embodiment of the timeless values that Shri Krishna stood for. It is a festival that awakens the soul to the higher truths of life and inspires individuals to lead a life of purpose and virtue.
Bapuji Says: Janmashtami is not just about celebration; it is about experiencing Shri Krishna in your life. Live a life free from sorrow, become a liberated soul, a divine soul, and a peaceful soul (calm soul). No matter which religion you follow or which deity you worship—whether your deity is Shri Krishna, Shiva, or Ram—through Shri Krishna’s divine knowledge, make your life full of bliss and grace. The purpose of Janmashtami is to ensure that your life is not a burden but a divine experience.
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