Krishna Janmashtami — often simply Janmashtami — celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu and one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. Because it follows the Hindu lunar calendar, the date varies, usually falling in August–September. Here's the history and traditions.
See the Janmashtami holiday page for the exact date, or India's holiday calendar.
What is Janmashtami?
Janma means birth and ashtami means the eighth day — Krishna is believed to have been born on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada, at midnight. The festival honours his birth and celebrates his life and teachings, including the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita.
Traditions of Janmashtami
- Midnight celebrations — since Krishna was born at midnight, the main prayers, singing, and the symbolic "birth" of baby Krishna take place then.
- Fasting through the day, broken after the midnight celebration.
- Jhulan — decorating and rocking a cradle holding the infant Krishna.
- Dahi Handi — a famous, lively event (especially in Maharashtra) where teams form human pyramids to break a high-hung pot of curd/butter, recalling the mischievous child Krishna who loved butter.
- Temples, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan (Krishna's birthplace and childhood home), hold grand celebrations.
Why the date changes each year
Because Janmashtami is set by the Hindu lunar calendar, its Gregorian date shifts each year, usually falling in August or September. Check the holiday page for the exact date.
Quick answers
What is Janmashtami? A Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.
Why is Janmashtami celebrated at midnight? Because Krishna is believed to have been born at midnight, so the main celebrations happen then.
What is Dahi Handi? A festive event where teams form human pyramids to break a high pot of curd, recalling Krishna's love of butter.
When is Janmashtami 2026? It falls in late summer 2026 — see the holiday page for the exact date.