According to the Hindu calendar, Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. This festival is also known as Shri Krishna Jayanti.
When was Lord Krishna born?
As per ancient texts, Lord Krishna one of the most worshipped deities in Hinduism was born during the Dwapar Yuga, after 863,874 years, 4 months, and 22 days had passed. His birth occurred on the Ashtami tithi under the Rohini Nakshatra, at midnight. At that moment, the Moon was rising in the eastern sky, and both the Ascendant and Moon sign were Taurus.
Why was Krishna born in a prison?
Krishna’s maternal uncle Kansa was warned that his sister Devaki’s eighth child would be the cause of his death. In fear, Kansa imprisoned Devaki and her husband Vasudeva and killed their first seven children. Lord Krishna was the eighth child, born as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Devaki and Vasudeva pleaded with Lord Krishna to appear as a normal baby. By divine grace, Vasudeva took baby Krishna to Vrindavan, secretly exchanged him with Yashoda and Nanda’s newborn girl, and returned to prison.
When Kansa tried to kill the baby girl, she disappeared into the sky and revealed herself as Yogmaya, declaring, “The one who will kill you is already born in Mathura.” In time, Krishna grew up and eventually killed Kansa, fulfilling the prophecy.
From that day on, Krishna’s birth is celebrated joyfully as Janmashtami across the world.
When is Janmashtami Celebrated in 2025?
In South India, Janmashtami is celebrated based on the Amanta calendar (solar calendar), while in North India, it follows the Purnimanta calendar (lunar calendar). Hence:
- North India celebrates Janmashtami in the Bhadrapada month (Krishna Paksha Ashtami).
- South India observes it in the Shravan month (Krishna Paksha Ashtami).
Though the month names differ, the festival is observed on the same day worldwide.
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Janmashtami 2025: 15th, 16th, or 17th August?
Due to differences in nakshatra (stars), tithi (date), rashi (zodiac), and timings, scholars may not agree on one exact date. This creates confusion for devotees.
Many people look for the best combination of astrological factors and choose their own preferred day. So, let’s understand what the scriptures say:
If the ideal astrological combination is not found, then observe the fast based on the Ashtami tithi from sunrise to sunrise. If Ashtami spans over two days or is not fully present, then the combined Ashtami with Saptami (previous day) or Navami (next day) can be considered.
There are 18 variations (bhed) based on subtle combinations of pure (shuddha) and impure (viddha) timings. But as a general rule, the midnight (Nishita Kaal) tithi is preferred. If Ashtami is not fully present during that time, Saptami Viddha Ashtami should be avoided, and Navami Viddha Ashtami should be accepted instead.
According to scriptures, Navami Viddha Ashtami, on Saturday, 16 August 2025, will be observed as Shri Krishna Janmashtami.
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How is Janmashtami Celebrated?
Janmashtami is usually celebrated over two days:
- On Day 1, devotees fast the whole day and prepare for midnight celebrations, the time of Krishna’s birth.
- People rock baby Krishna in a cradle, offer his favorite sweets made of butter and milk, and bow down for blessings.
- Temples are decorated with flowers and lights, and Krishna idols are beautifully adorned.
- Special prasadam (food offerings) is distributed to all visitors.
Janmashtami 2025 Date and Puja Time Details
- Saptami Tithi starts: 15 August, 2:09 AM
- Saptami Tithi ends: 15 August, 11:52 PM
- Ashtami Tithi starts: After 15 August night
- Ashtami Tithi ends: 16 August, 9:36 PM
Since Ashtami does not fall perfectly in the preferred time on either day, Saptami Viddha Ashtami should be avoided. According to scriptures, Navami Viddha Ashtami, on Saturday, 16 August 2025, will be observed as Shri Krishna Janmashtami.
Puja should be done during Nishita Kaal (midnight).
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