Janmashtami, celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Krishna, is one of the major fasts and festivals in Hinduism. On this day, devotees observe a fast out of devotion to Lord Krishna and perform special worship at night, coinciding with the time of His birth. Religious beliefs hold the Janmashtami fast to be immensely meritorious. It is believed that observing a single Janmashtami fast with proper rituals and devotion yields the same spiritual merit as observing 20 crore (200 million) Ekadashi fasts.

This year, the festival of Shri Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated on September 4, 2026. Devotees of Lord Krishna will observe a fast on this day and perform worship at night during the time of the Lord's birth.

What is the significance of the Janmashtami fast?
According to Pandit Dheeraj Sharma, an astrologer from Hindaun, the Janmashtami fast is a celebration of devotion and dedication to Lord Krishna. Religious scriptures contain detailed accounts of the glory of this fast. It is believed that anyone who observes the Janmashtami fast with devotion receives the grace of Lord Krishna. The *Bhavishya Purana* describes the glory of the Janmashtami fast and highlights its immense spiritual rewards. Based on this, it is religiously believed that a single Janmashtami fast is as fruitful as 20 crore Ekadashi fasts. Additionally, observing the Janmashtami fast is believed to liberate a person from sins and bring happiness and prosperity.

How to observe the Janmashtami fast
According to Pandit Dheeraj Sharma, devotees observing the Janmashtami fast should bathe in the morning, meditate on Lord Krishna, and take a solemn vow (*sankalp*) to observe the fast. Thereafter, they should spend the day observing the fast while chanting the Lord's name, singing devotional songs (*bhajans*), and performing worship. Devotees may consume fruit-based foods (*phalahar*) according to their capacity or observe a waterless fast (*nirjal vrat*). The method of fasting should be chosen based on an individual's physical capacity and health. It is also considered auspicious to light a lamp and worship an idol or picture of Lord Krishna in His infant form throughout the day.

How to worship Lord Krishna at midnight
Midnight is considered the most significant time for Janmashtami worship because, according to religious belief, Lord Krishna was born at midnight. Therefore, devotees perform worship at midnight, the time of the Lord's birth. During this ritual, the infant form of Lord Krishna is bathed with *Panchamrit*. Afterward, He is dressed in new attire and adorned with flowers, garlands, sandalwood paste, and jewelry. Offerings (*Bhog*) such as *Makhan-Mishri* (butter and rock sugar), *Dhaniya Panjiri* (coriander-based sweet), and other delicacies are presented to the Lord. Subsequently, the *Aarti* of Lord Krishna is performed, and prayers are offered for the family's happiness, prosperity, and the fulfillment of wishes. Once the worship concludes, devotees partake of the *Prasad* to break their fast.

**Points to Remember During the Fast**
Observing the Janmashtami fast is not merely about abstaining from food. On this day, it is considered essential to harbor devotion towards Lord Krishna through one's thoughts, words, and actions. Therefore, during the fast, one should focus on consuming *Sattvic* food, remembering the Lord, and engaging in religious activities.

PC Social Media