Q: Why do devotees fast and break it only at midnight during Janmashtami?

Sri Krishna was born at midnight, known as the ' Nishita Kala ' in the confines of the prison at Mathura. To honor this divine moment, devotees observe a fast throughout the day and break it only at midnight after pujas are held to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. This ritual of fasting signifies the love and belief of the devotees in the power of Lord Krishna through their willingness to not consume food and water until the time of his birth and only after pujas are held.

Question 1

Why do devotees fast and break it only at midnight during Janmashtami?

Accepted Answer

Sri Krishna was born at midnight, known as the 'Nishita Kala' in the confines of the prison at Mathura. To honor this divine moment, devotees observe a fast throughout the day and break it only at midnight after pujas are held to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. This ritual of fasting signifies the love and belief of the devotees in the power of Lord Krishna through their willingness to not consume food and water until the time of his birth and only after pujas are held.

Question 2

Why are peacock feathers associated with Janmashtami celebrations?

Accepted Answer

Lord Krishna is often depicted wearing a peacock feather in his crown. The peacock feather signifies purity, beauty, and grace. According to legends, the peacock offered its feathers to Krishna as a mark of respect and gratitude, and since then, it has become synonymous with Krishna's image.

Question 3

Why is it said that Lord Krishna was born at midnight?

Accepted Answer

Lord Krishna's birth at midnight has a symbolic significance. Midnight, being the darkest hour of a day is the time when demons are considered to be most active. As the legend says, Mathura was once ruled by a tyrannical ruler by the name of Kansa. The people of Mathura suffered from his atrocities. Even Krishna’s father, Basudev, was imprisoned. When Krishna was born, it was like a bright light coming into this darkness. His birth signifies the victory of good over evil.

Question 4

What is the significance of Dahi Handi during Janmashtami?

Accepted Answer

Lord Krishna in his childhood, was extremely fond of butter and curd. Because of his playful and mischievous acts of stealing butter from the homes in Vrindavan, he was often referred to as "Makhan Chor". Dahi Handi is a religious act that portrays Lord Krishna’s childhood days, where his friends would form a human pyramid and little ‘Gopal’ would climb on top of the pyramid to break pots (handis) filled with butter or curd (dahi) that were deliberately hung high to avoid his reach. This religious act has now become a community event that promotes teamwork and unity.

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