Why Krishna Janmashtami 2025 Will Be Celebrated On August 16 And Not 15?

Krishna Janmashtami 2025 commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, symbolising the triumph of righteousness over evil. Observed on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapada, this year's celebration spans August 15-16, with the Nishita Puja Muhurat occurring at midnight. Devotees fast, sing bhajans, and perform puja rituals to seek Krishna's blessings. Janmashtami holds profound spiritual significance, inspiring devotion and love towards Lord Krishna. However, many devotees are confused as to why Janmashtami will be celebrated on August 16 and not on August 15, despite the Ashtami Tithi beginning on the latter date.

Why Krishna Janmashtami 2025 Will Be Celebrated On August 16 And Not 15?

According to the Panchang, Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, coinciding with the Rohini Nakshatra. However, this year, the Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra don't align, falling on different days. Astrologically, Janmashtami will be observed on the day the Ashtami Tithi is present. The Ashtami Tithi begins on August 15 at 11:49 PM and ends on August 16 at 9:34 PM.

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Janmashtami celebrates Lord Krishna's divine birth, symbolising righteousness' triumph, with devotees seeking his blessings through midnight puja rituals and joyful festivities. (Image Source: Freepik) 

Following the Udaya Tithi, both Smarta and Vaishnava communities will celebrate Janmashtami on Saturday, August 16, 2025. This is the reason why Janmashtami will be celebrated on 16th August, 2025 and not on August 15th. Devotees will mark the occasion with midnight celebrations, temple rituals, Raslila performances, and Dahi Handi events, with the main temples being Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura and Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan.

Janmashtami Celebrations Across India And The World

Janmashtami celebrations across India are a vibrant spectacle. In Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna, devotees gather for grand festivities, temple rituals and Raslila performances. Maharashtra's Dahi Handi tradition is another highlight, where human pyramids are formed to break pots of curd, symbolising Krishna's playful nature. In South India, temples and homes are decorated with flowers and lamps, and devotees offer traditional sweets like seedai and murukku. Each region adds its unique twist, making Janmashtami a kaleidoscope of colours and traditions.

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Globally, Janmashtami is celebrated with equal fervour. ISKCON temples worldwide host grand events, featuring kirtans, bhajans and cultural performances. In the United States, cities like New York and Los Angeles witness elaborate celebrations, while in the UK, Bhaktivedanta Manor in Hertfordshire is a major hub for Janmashtami festivities.