Gokulashtami

Gokulashtami

Krishna Janmashtami, commonly known as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival commemorating the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. This celebration takes place according to the Hindu lunar calendar, specifically on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha in either Shraavana or Bhadrapad, which usually falls in August or September.

Significance of Janmashtami
Janmashtami carries profound spiritual and philosophical importance. It imparts valuable life lessons, such as the pursuit of righteousness, the essence of selfless service, and the triumph of good over evil.

The teachings of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita highlight the significance of performing one's duties without attachment to the outcomes, a message that resonates universally. This festival is especially significant in the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism. The observances include reenactments of Krishna's life from the Bhagavata Purana (such as Rasa Lila), devotional singing at midnight marking Krishna's birth, fasting (upavasa), a night vigil (ratri jagaran), and a grand celebration (mahotsava) the following day. The festival is widely celebrated across India.