Janmashtami Special

Why is Janmashtami Celebrated?

Janmashtami is celebrated with great devotion and reverence, as it marks the birth of Lord Krishna, who is seen as a symbol of divinity, love, and righteousness.

Story of Janmashtami -

The birth story of Lord Krishna is a revered and sacred tale in Hindu mythology. Here's a brief summary:

King Kamsa, the ruler of Mathura, had imprisoned his sister Devaki and her husband Vasudeva because of a prediction foretold that their eighth son would kill Kansa.

When Devaki was expecting her eighth child, Kansa became increasingly anxious. Kansa wanted to kill the child.

On the night of Krishna's birth, Vasudeva decided to take the newborn to safety.

Vasudeva planned to take Krishna to his friend Nanda who stayed in Gokul.

As he carried the infant Krishna across the Yamuna River, the gods intervened:

- The River Parted to let them pass.

- A Snake Hood protected Krishna from the rain.

- The Wind God Vayu cleared the path.

Vasudeva reached the home of Nanda and Yashoda in Gokul, where he exchanged Krishna with their newborn daughter. 

Kansa, thinking the girl was the prophesied child, tried to kill her, but she transformed into the goddess Durga and escaped.

Meanwhile, Krishna grew up in Gokul, surrounded by love and divine protection, eventually fulfilling the prophecy and defeating Kansa.

This story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the divine intervention in human affairs. It's celebrated as Krishna Janmashtami, a significant festival in the Hindu calendar.

During Janmashtami, traditional Hindu cuisine is prepared, focusing on vegetarian and dairy-based dishes. 

Here are some popular foods eaten during this festival:

1. Makhan Mishri: A sweet dish made with butter (makhan) and crystallized sugar (mishri), symbolizing Krishna's love for butter.

2. Panchamrit: A sweet, creamy liquid made with milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar, offered to Krishna and distributed as prasad.

3. Chappan Bhog: A 56-item spread of vegetarian dishes, including sweets, snacks, and savory items, offered to Krishna.

4. Kheer: A sweet rice pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron.

5. Laddu: Sweet balls made with gram flour, sugar, and ghee.

6. Misri Makkhan: Fresh butter and sugar crystals served together.

7. Dahi Handi: A clay pot filled with yogurt, hung high for participants to break and spill, symbolizing Krishna's childhood pranks.

8. Shrikhand: Sweet yogurt dessert flavored with cardamom and saffron.

These dishes are prepared with love and devotion, offered to Krishna, and shared among family and friends, spreading joy and festivity during Janmashtami.

Here are some decor ideas for Janmashtami:

1. Bal Gopal Theme: Create a childhood Krishna setup with a cradle, toys, and a miniature swing.

2. Flower Decorations: Use flowers like marigolds, roses, and jasmine to create beautiful garlands and decorations.

3. Peacock Decor: Incorporate peacock feathers, figurines, or prints, as the peacock is Krishna's symbol.

4. Dahi Handi Setup: Recreate the iconic Dahi Handi scene with a clay pot, ropes, and a mini Krishna figurine.

5. Spiritual Banners: Hang banners with Krishna's quotes, teachings, or devotional songs.

6. Color Scheme: Use a vibrant color scheme of blues, yellows, and whites, inspired by Krishna's attire.

7. Jhula or Swing: Suspend a decorative swing (jhula) with flowers and cushions, symbolizing Krishna's love for swings.

8. Temple Setup: Create a mini temple with a Krishna idol, shrine, and offerings.

9. Gopis' Village: Recreate the village of Gopis (Krishna's friends) with hut-like structures, pots, and utensils.

10. Lighting: Use diyas, candles, or fairy lights to create a warm, festive ambiance.

11. Krishna's Footprints: Paint or stick footprints leading to the puja area, symbolizing Krishna's presence.

12. Musical Instruments: Display traditional instruments like the flute, drum, or kartal, associated with Krishna's love for music.

Remember, the decor should reflect the festive and devotional spirit of Janmashtami!

Fasting on Janmashtami is a significant aspect of the celebration, and here are some reasons why:

1. Spiritual Significance: Fasting helps devotees focus on their spiritual growth, detach from worldly desires, and connect with Krishna's divine energy.

2. Purification: Fasting is believed to purify the body, mind, and soul, preparing devotees for spiritual enlightenment.

3. Devotional Discipline: Fasting demonstrates devotion, discipline, and self-control, essential qualities for spiritual growth.

4. Krishna's Teachings: Krishna emphasized the importance of self-control, detachment, and spiritual growth. Fasting on Janmashtami honors his teachings.

5. Yashoda's Wish: According to legend, Yashoda, Krishna's mother, asked devotees to fast on Janmashtami to ensure her son's well-being and happiness.

6. Seeking Blessings: Devotees fast to seek Krishna's blessings, guidance, and protection.

7. Community Bonding: Fasting together strengthens community bonds, fostering a sense of unity and shared spiritual purpose.

8. Detoxification: Fasting is believed to detoxify the body, promoting physical and mental well-being.

9. Meditation and Reflection: Fasting provides an opportunity for introspection, meditation, and reflection on Krishna's teachings.

10. Gratitude and Humility: Fasting expresses gratitude for Krishna's presence in life and cultivates humility, recognizing the divine's significance.

Remember, fasting is a personal choice and should be done with proper guidance and care. Some devotees opt for partial fasting or modified fasting, like giving up certain foods or activities.