Janmashtami 2026 – Date, Significance & Timings
4
September 2026
Friday
Janmashtami 2026
About Janmashtami
Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna — the eighth avatar of Vishnu and one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. Devotees observe a fast until midnight and celebrate with bhajans, plays, and the Dahi Handi tradition.
Significance
Lord Krishna is the divine charioteer who delivered the Bhagavad Gita and the hero of the Mahabharata. His birth in Mathura at midnight is celebrated with midnight pujas, the breaking of clay pots (Dahi Handi), and elaborate decorations.
How the Date is Determined
Janmashtami falls on Ashtami (8th Tithi) of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada / Avani (August–September).
Related Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dahi Handi?
Dahi Handi is a festive tradition where a clay pot filled with curd (dahi) is hung high and teams of young men (Govindas) form human pyramids to break it. It commemorates young Krishna's love for butter and curd.
When is Janmashtami in 2026?
Janmashtami falls on Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami. Check the festivals calendar for the exact 2026 date.