Janmashtami, a revered Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, has tremendous significance. It is celebrated on the eighth day of the dark half of the month of Bhadrapada (August or September) and falls on August 26 (Monday) in 2024. Derived from ‘Janma’ (birth) and ‘Ashtami’ (the eighth day), it is fervently celebrated in Mathura, Krishna’s birthplace, and Vrindavan, where he spent his early years.

An essential part of the festival is fasting, which symbolizes the purification of body and mind. Customs vary by region and tradition, but all emphasize devotion and reverence.

TYPES OF FASTING:

• Nirjala Fast: The most austere form, which involves abstaining from food and drink until midnight to celebrate Krishna’s birth, followed by prayers and aarti.
• Phalahar Fast: It allows fruits, milk and water and is intended for those who cannot maintain Nirjala, follow a sattvic (pure) diet and avoid grains, pulses, onions and garlic.

During Janmashtami fasting, grains, pulses, rice and salt are prohibited. Instead, devotees opt for non-grain foods such as buckwheat, amaranth and water chestnut flour and use rock salt (sendha namak).

PERMITTED FOODS:

• Fresh fruits such as bananas, apples and pomegranates.
• Dairy products like milk, yoghurt, paneer and butter.
• Root vegetables such as potatoes and sweet potatoes are often used in vrat dishes.
• Nuts and seeds for strength and nutrition.

RITUALS AND BREAKING THE FAST:

• The Janmashtami fast includes all-day prayers, bhajans and recitations of the Bhagavad Gita or Krishna Leela.
• Many visit temples where Krishna’s birth is joyfully celebrated.
• The fast reaches its climax at midnight with the symbolic birth of the god Krishna.

• Devotees offer prepared food to Krishna and partake of Prasad.
• It is believed that fasting and these rituals bring devotees closer to Krishna and seek blessings for prosperity and spiritual growth.