About Janmashtami
The birth anniversary of Lord Krishna — the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Celebrated with midnight prayers, Dahi Handi, and devotional songs across all Krishna temples.
Significance
Celebrates Krishna's divine birth at midnight in the prison of King Kamsa in Mathura. His teachings in the Bhagavad Gita form the cornerstone of Hindu philosophy. ISKCON temples worldwide conduct all-night celebrations.
Rituals & Observances
- ✦Fasting from sunrise till midnight (birth time)
- ✦Midnight puja: Janmotsav (birth celebration) with conch and bells
- ✦Dahi Handi — human pyramid to break a butter pot (Maharashtra)
- ✦Decorating a jhula (swing) for the infant Krishna idol
- ✦Bhajan and kirtan all night long
- ✦Distributing prasad: panchamrit, mathri, butter, sweets
Krishna Temples to Visit
View all →Shri Radha Govind Dham Mandir
Keshav Dham Rd, opposite Prem Mandir, near Sukhdham Dharamshala
Vrindavan Sri Sri Radha Govind Dev Temple
Vijayanagar 3rd Main Rd
ISKCON Shimla
ISKCON Shimla center D R Complex, above Uco Bank
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Janmashtami in 2026?▾
Janmashtami 2026 falls on Monday, 17 August 2026. Note that festival dates may vary by 1–2 days by region — verify with a local panchangam.
Why is Janmashtami celebrated?▾
Celebrates Krishna's divine birth at midnight in the prison of King Kamsa in Mathura. His teachings in the Bhagavad Gita form the cornerstone of Hindu philosophy. ISKCON temples worldwide conduct all-night celebrations.
What are the main rituals of Janmashtami?▾
Fasting from sunrise till midnight (birth time). Midnight puja: Janmotsav (birth celebration) with conch and bells. Dahi Handi — human pyramid to break a butter pot (Maharashtra).
Which temples are best to visit on Janmashtami?▾
The best temples to visit on Janmashtami are those dedicated to Krishna and Vishnu. See the temple listings below for top-rated options near you.
Upcoming Festivals
Festival dates are approximate and based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Actual dates may vary by 1–2 days by region. Verify with a local panchangam.