Krishna Janmashtami 2022: Why It Is Celebrated, Its History And Rituals

Also known as Gokul Ashtami, the festival falls on the ashtami of Krishna Paksha or the eighth day of the month of Bhadrapada.

Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. He is believed to be the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is revered across India. This year, Krishna Janmashtami will be observed on August 18 and 19. Also known as Gokul Ashtami, the festival falls on the Ashtami of Krishna Paksha or the eighth day of the month of Bhadrapada.

Lord Krishna is said to have been born in a dungeon in present-day Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. He was born to Queen Devaki and King Vasudev at midnight. Hence, as per tradition, the Krishna Janmashtami puja is performed in the Nishita Kaal, which is around midnight.

In Hindu epics, Lord Krishna is described as the god of love, compassion, and tenderness. He is also known for playing mischievous pranks and performing miracles with his supreme powers. As per belief, Kansa, brother of Queen Devaki, heard a prophecy that Lord Krishna was born to destroy him. Thus, Kansa tried to eliminate Krishna but before he could do that, Krishna was safely sent out of the dark dungeon. King Vasudeva crossed the Yamuna River carrying Krishna over his head in a basket and provided him a safe haven in Gokul.