Janmashtami Wishes 2023: How to Celebrate Lord Krishna’s Birthday with Joy and Devotion
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the most important and popular festivals in India, especially among the followers of Vaishnavism. Janmashtami falls on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually corresponds to August or September in the Gregorian calendar.
The Significance of Janmashtami
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna was born at midnight in a prison cell in Mathura, where his parents Devaki and Vasudeva were imprisoned by his evil uncle Kamsa. Kamsa had a prophecy that he would be killed by Devaki’s eighth son, so he tried to kill all her children as soon as they were born. However, with divine intervention, Krishna was miraculously saved and transported to Gokul, where he was raised by his foster parents Yashoda and Nanda.
Lord Krishna grew up to be a charming and mischievous child, who loved to play pranks on his friends and family. He also performed many miraculous deeds, such as killing demons, lifting the Govardhan mountain, and stealing butter from the gopis. He later became a great warrior, statesman, philosopher, and teacher, who played a pivotal role in the epic Mahabharata war. He revealed his divine form and delivered the Bhagavad Gita, the sacred scripture of Hinduism, to his friend and disciple Arjuna.
Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is considered to be the embodiment of love, joy, wisdom, and compassion. He is worshipped as the supreme personality of Godhead, who descended on earth to protect dharma (righteousness) and destroy adharma (evil). He is also revered as a friend, guide, protector, and lover by his devotees.
The Rituals and Customs of Janmashtami
Janmashtami is celebrated with great fervor and devotion by Hindus across the world. The preparations for the festival begin well in advance, with devotees cleaning and decorating their homes and temples with flowers, lights, rangoli (colorful patterns), and pictures or idols of Lord Krishna. They also observe fasts and chant mantras or bhajans (devotional songs) in praise of Lord Krishna.
On the day of Janmashtami, devotees dress up their children as Lord Krishna or Radha (his consort), and take them to temples or cultural programs. They also enact scenes from Krishna’s childhood or perform dances or dramas based on his life. They also offer various delicacies such as makhan mishri (butter and sugar), kheer (rice pudding), laddoo (sweet balls), and panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, sugar, and ghee) to Lord Krishna as prasad (holy offering).
The main highlight of Janmashtami is the midnight celebration, which marks the exact time of Krishna’s birth. Devotees gather in temples or homes and perform a special puja (worship) or aarti (ceremony) for Lord Krishna. They also rock the cradle of baby Krishna and sing lullabies or hymns for him. They also break their fasts by eating prasad or other festive foods.
Another popular tradition of Janmashtami is the dahi handi (yogurt pot), which is inspired by Krishna’s love for butter. In this event, a clay pot filled with yogurt or butter is hung high from a rope or a pole. A group of young men or boys form a human pyramid to reach the pot and break it, while others throw water or colors on them to make it difficult. The one who breaks the pot is called the govinda (one who finds cows), and is rewarded with prizes or money.
The Best Wishes and Greetings for Janmashtami
On this auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, people exchange greetings and wishes with their friends and family members. Here are some of the best wishes and greetings that you can share with your loved ones on Janmashtami:
- May Lord Krishna shower his blessings on you and your family on this holy day. Happy Janmashtami!
- May you find peace and happiness in the teachings of Lord Krishna. Wishing you a very happy Janmashtami!
- May the flute of Lord Krishna fill your life with melodious music and harmony. Happy Janmashtami to you and your family!
- May the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha always inspire you and fill your heart with joy. Happy Janmashtami!
- May Lord Krishna steal all your worries and give you all the love, peace, and prosperity that you deserve. Happy Janmashtami!
- May you celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna with joy and devotion. Jai Shri Krishna!
- May Lord Krishna guide you in every aspect of your life and help you achieve your goals. Happy Janmashtami!
- May Lord Krishna be your friend, protector, and teacher in every situation. Wishing you a very happy Janmashtami!
- May you always remember the name of Lord Krishna and chant his glories. Happy Janmashtami to you and your family!
- May Lord Krishna bless you with good health, wealth, and happiness. Happy Janmashtami!
ALSO READ: Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Why It Is Celebrated, Its History And Rituals
