जन्माष्टमी
Significance
Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the Ashtami of the dark fortnight, with the main pooja at midnight, the traditional time of Krishna's birth. Smarta and ISKCON traditions may observe it on different days.
Pooja procedure
- Fast during the day and decorate the home shrine with a cradle for Bal Gopal.
- Perform abhishekam of Krishna at midnight with milk, curd and honey.
- Sing kirtan and bhajans.
- Offer panjiri, makhan-mishri and fruits as prasad.
Samagri
- Bal Gopal idol and cradle
- Milk, curd, honey
- Tulsi leaves and flowers
- Makhan-mishri
- Peacock feather, flute
Frequently asked questions
Why are there two dates for Janmashtami?
Smarta and Vaishnava (ISKCON) traditions use different rules to decide the day.
