Krishna Janmashtami 2026

Krishna Janmashtami — also called Gokulashtami — celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth and most beloved avatar of Lord Vishnu. He was born on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the dark fortnight of the Bhadrapada month, at exactly midnight, under the Rohini Nakshatra.

That is why, unlike any other festival, the main puja of Janmashtami happens at midnight (Nishita Kaal) — the very moment darkness was at its deepest, and the divine light chose to arrive. Temples ring with bells, conches blow, and crores of voices cry out together: "Nand ke anand bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki!"

🌟 Rohini Nakshatra graces most of 4 September — a specially auspicious combination. Timings are Delhi-based; check your city's Panchang for exact local muhurat. Fast parana (breaking) is traditionally after the tithi/nakshatra ends.

• 1
  Morning sankalp — Bathe early, wear clean clothes, and take the vow (sankalp) to observe the Janmashtami fast. Many devotees keep a phalahar (fruit) fast; some observe nirjala.
• 2
  Decorate the jhula — Prepare a small cradle for Laddu Gopal with flowers, and decorate the puja space with peacock feathers, rangoli, and lights.
• 3
  Abhishek of Bal Gopal — Bathe the idol with panchamrit (milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar), then dress him in new clothes, mukut, and flute.
• 4
  Offer the bhog — Makhan-mishri is a must (it's Kanha's favourite!), along with panjiri, fruits, and sweets. Many families prepare the full chhappan bhog (56 items).
• 5
  Midnight Janmotsav — At the Nishita muhurat, celebrate Krishna's birth: blow the conch, ring bells, rock the jhula, and sing "Nand ke anand bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki!"
• 6
  Break the fast — After the midnight puja (or the next morning as per your family tradition), break the fast with prasad. Share it generously!