When is Janmashtami?

Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, is celebrated with great devotion and joy throughout India. However, the festivities and rituals are spectacularly grand in Mathura and Vrindavan, cities where Krishan was born and spent his childhood years respectively.

The exact date of Janmashtami varies each year because it is determined according to the Hindu lunar calendar (which is different from the calendar we use for our everyday lives - the Gregorian calendar). In 2024, Janmashtami will be celebrated on the 26th of August, which is a Monday. 

Do you know what the word ‘Janmashtami’ means?

If you break it down in two parts, it becomes easier to understand. ‘Janma’ means birth. And ‘Ashtami’ is the eighth day of the dark fortnight of Bhadrapada (which is generally in August or September in our calendars). So when we say Janmashtami, we are actually describing Lord Krishna’s exact birthday as per the Hindu lunar calendar.

How is Janmashtami celebrated?

Everyone has their own way of celebrating Krishna’s birthday and showing their devotion. Maharashtra is famous for organizing Dahi Handi. An event where groups of youth create human pyramids to crack open a pot of curd - a celebration of Krishna’s love for butter. 

Across the country, the elderly fast on Janmashtami while offering their families delicious traditional delicacies. In the South, this auspicious festival is never complete without sweets such as Athirasam, Seedai and Halwa. Sweet Karam Coffee has curated a Janmashtami Combo, containing your favorite snacks and sweets, to bring authentic and homely flavors to your celebration. Check out our Janmashtami Combo here and order one for yourself today!