Everything You Need to Know About Janmashtami Celebrations for 2023 - Rituals, Food, Timings and More

India, a land rich in cultural diversity, boasts a plethora of festivals that mirror its spiritual heritage and unity. One such festival is Janmashtami which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. 

Observed with fervour and devotion across the country, Janmashtami brings together people of all ages to revel in the tales of Krishna's divine life and teachings.

What is Janmashtami?

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami 2023, Gokulashtami, or simply Krishna Jayanti, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Krishna is believed to be the eighth incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu, sent to Earth to restore dharma (righteousness) and annihilate evil forces. 

His life story, as depicted in ancient scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana, continues to inspire and guide millions.

Janmashtami 2023 Shubh Muhurat

(Indian Timings)

The Puja time is from 11:57 p.m. to 12:42 a.m. on September 7, 2023. The worship time on Janmashtami starts at 11:57 p.m. The birth anniversary and worship of Laddu Gopal will be till 12.42 a.m. midnight.

(US Timings)

The Puja time is from 1:27 p.m. to 2:12 p.m. on September 8, 2023. The worship time on Janmashtami starts at 1:27 p.m. The birth anniversary and worship of Laddu Gopal will be till 2:12 pm. Janmashtami 2023 USA date is September 8, 2023.

The Deity Associated with Janmashtami: Lord Krishna

Lord Krishna, a central figure in Hinduism, is known for his enchanting flute-playing, his youthful pranks, and his profound philosophy. His teachings emphasize the importance of duty, morality, and devotion to God. 

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text in Hinduism, presents a dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, wherein Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance.

How is Janmashtami Celebrated?

Janmashtami celebration is a lively blend of religious observances, cultural performances, and devotional fervor. Here's how the festival is typically celebrated:

1. Devotional Singing and Dancing: Bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (spiritual chants) are sung in praise of Lord Krishna. People gather at temples and homes to participate in joyous singing and dancing, creating an atmosphere of spiritual ecstasy.

2. Midnight Vigil: Lord Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight. Devotees keep vigil during the late hours, engaging in prayers and celebrating the exact moment of his birth with great enthusiasm and holy chants.

3. Decorating Homes and Temples: Homes and temples are adorned with colorful decorations, flowers, and lights. Intricate rangoli designs often grace the entrances, adding to the festive ambiance.

4. Raslila Performances: In some regions, enactments of Krishna's life, known as "Raslila," are performed. These depict his childhood acts and his interactions with the gopis (cowherd girls) in Vrindavan.

5. Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees observe fasting on Janmashtami. While some fast strictly without consuming any food or water until midnight, others opt for a partial fast, consuming only fruits and milk as Janmashtami prasad. The fast is broken after the midnight celebrations with various traditional dishes and Indian sweets.

Significance of Janmashtami

Janmashtami holds deep spiritual and philosophical significance. It teaches devotees important life lessons such as the pursuit of righteousness, the significance of selfless service, and the ultimate victory of good over evil. 

Lord Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita emphasize the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the results, which resonates with people from all walks of life.

Janmashtami Fasting Rules 

For those observing fasting during Janmashtami, there are specific rules to follow. Fasting typically begins at sunrise and continues until midnight when Lord Krishna is believed to have been born. 

Devotees may abstain from consuming grains, non-vegetarian food, and certain spices. Instead, they focus on a saatvik (pure) diet that includes fruits, milk, and dairy products like Janmashtami sweets.

How to Celebrate Janmashtami at Home? 

1. Decoration: Decorate your home with vibrant colors and traditional motifs. Adorn the entrance with rangoli and torans (door hangings) to welcome Lord Krishna's divine presence.

2. Fasting: Many people observe fasting on Janmashtami. If you're planning to fast, prepare simple yet nutritious food to break the fast the next day.

3. Pujas and Prayers: Conduct special puja rituals at home. Decorate a small altar with idols or images of Lord Krishna and offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense as a mark of devotion.

4. Bhajans and Kirtans: Sing devotional songs (bhajans) and engage in kirtans (chanting) that glorify Lord Krishna's name and deeds.

5. Create Jhula (Swing): Create a swing adorned with flowers and leaves, symbolizing Lord Krishna's playful nature. Place the idol of baby Krishna on it and gently swing it while singing hymns.

Order Delightful Indian Sweets on Janmashtami

• Indian Sweets & Snacks

Order scrumptious Indian sweets like motichoor laddoos, kesar pedas, mawa burfi, rasgulla, Gulab Jamun, an assortment of delightful sweets boxes, and more from our online store. We offer a range of Indian sweets gift boxes packed beautifully and delivered right to your doors. 

• Just Ready-to-eat Indian Meals

Break your Janmashtami fast with our range of Just’s authentic and freshly made ready-to-eat Indian meals. From Paneer Butter Masala to Veg Biryani and more, we have an extensive line of home-style meals cooked fresh and delivered to your doorstep. Say goodbye to the cooking hassle and savor homemade flavors on a pious day. 

• Restaurant Indian Food

Indulge in rich, spicy Indian curries and soft parathas made by cuisine experts and delivered right to your doorstep. Order delicious Indian restaurant food from any of our partner restaurants and celebrate the festival of joy with your food-loving friends and family.

• Indian Meal Kits

Devote your time to Lord Krishna, and let the cooking be on us! Order Indian Meal kits prepared in 5 minutes just by adding hot water. Our Indian meal kits come packed with pre-measured Indian spices and veggies so you can relish the familiar flavors in every bite made in no time. 

Janmashtami is an occasion to connect with divinity, renew our commitment to righteousness, and celebrate the timeless teachings of Lord Krishna. The festivities, fasting, and devotion that mark this auspicious day bring together people from all corners of India and beyond, fostering a sense of unity, faith, and joy. 

Shop for all your cooking essentials, like groceries and other kitchen supplies, from our online store at the best rates. To sweeten your celebrations while away from home, relish nostalgic Indian sweets like motichoor laddoos, kaju burfi, mawa pedas, kesar pedas and more, available at our online store. This Janmashtami, revel in a desi celebration in the US as delicious Indian delights are delivered right to your doorstep with a click! 

Happy Janmashtami to you and yours. 

Welcoming the divine presence of Lord Krishna or Balgopal into our hearts and homes.