Janmashtami 2023: Do’s And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Doing Fast

Janmashtami 2023: The devotees will commemorate Shri Krishna Janmashtami this year on the 6th and 7th of September 2023. This auspicious occasion is also known as known as Gokulashtami, Krishnasthami, or Srijayanti. This festival is especially significant for adherents of the Vaishnavites, who place the highest importance on Lord Vishnu. 

The day is dedicated to fasting, decorating & adoring the idol of Lord Krishna, and cooking delicious foods that the god himself enjoys. However, there are guidelines that you should carefully follow when it comes to Janmashtami fasting, as is the case for ritualistic fasting for all other sacred Hindu festivals. 

Janmashtami 2023: Do’s And Dont’s Of Janmashtami Fasting 

Here’s What You Should Do On Janmashtami - 

1. Take The Vrat Sankalp - Every customary fast begins with a Sankalp, or promise, that you would observe the fasting guidelines to every detail. If you are ill, pregnant, or have diabetes, for example, forgo fasting and follow a sattvik diet for the day instead of observing the Sankalp. 

2. Consume Sattvik Food Only - On Janmashtami, you along with your loved ones must only consume sattvik food whether or not keeping a fast. This entails abstaining from all foods that are Rajasic and Tamasic in nature, such as meat, onions, garlic, and alcohol.  

3. Pre-Fasting Considerations - Since the Janmashtami fast often lasts for 24 hours and is therefore an extended duration of time, you should make sure that your pre-fasting meal provides you with the right amount of nutrition. From a day prior, stay away from heavy foods and choose instead for fresh fruits, vegetables, and light meals. 

4. Prepare Bhog For Lord Krishna - An important aspect of the Janmashtami celebrations is preparing particular offerings for Lord Krishna. You should prepare Panjiri, Seedai, Peda, Gajak, and Kheer in addition to handmade butter and Panchamrit. Make sure to include foods like Ghee, Butter, Dahi and Milk in the bhog. Offer food to Lord Krishna by adding Tulsi leaves on the top as the Lord doesn’t accept any offering without it. 

5. Create A Pleasant Atmosphere - One must refrain from engaging in disputes with family members or friends and respect the elders on Janmashtami. 

6. Do Harinam Sankirtan And Recite Krishna’s Glories - You must remember the divine lord, recite his glories and listen and sing Harinam Sankitan along with your family members and friends on the day of Janmashtami. 

Here’s What You Should Not Do On Janmashtami - 

1. Stay Away From Tea & Coffee - When milk is permitted during the Janmashtami fast, it is advisable to stay away from other alcoholic drinks. However, you can consume lassi, chaas, and smoothies. 

2. Use Clean And Separate Utensils - Make sure the utensils you use to prepare food and distribute prasad on Janmashtami are clean. If possible, these should be specific ritualistic utensils reserved for puja, but if not, ensure sure they have never been used to prepare, serve, or keep non-vegetarian food. 

Also Read: Janmashtami 2023: Chant These Lord Krishna Mantras According To Your Zodiac Sign To Please Kanha Ji

3. Do Not Consume Oily Food - For Janmashtami, fried dishes and snacks like puri sabji, samosas, pakodas, etc. are traditionally served at both the pre-fasting meal and the post-fasting meal. Eating such foods while fasting might cause indigestion and acidity, so it's better to stick to simple, light meals in order to prevent digestive issues. 

4. Do Not Harm Animals And Consume Non-Vegetarian Food - Avoid hurting animals, in keeping with Lord Krishna's love for all creatures, especially cows. On Janmashtami, offer food to animals to promote respect for all living things. Avoid consuming Non-Vegetarian food as it is strictly forbidden.