Devotees of Lord Krishna observe a ritualistic fast during his birth anniversary. Devotees eat only a single meal a day before Janmashtami. On the fasting day, devotees take a Sankalpa to observe a day long fast and to break it on the next day when the Ashtami Tithi is over.
They perform the Krishna Abhishekam, with milk, ghee and water, and proceed to offer ‘bhog’ to the God. Through the day of fasting no grains are consumed, the devotees take a meal containing fruits and water, called ‘Phalaram’.
This year Janmashtami would be celebrated on 14th August. Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna. It is said that Lord Krishna was born at midnight on the ‘eighth day’ or the ‘Ashtami’ of the holy month, Shravana, according to the Hindu Lunar calendar.
The legend behind Lord Krishna’s birth, and his triumph over enemies, makes for one of Hindu folklore’s most loved tales, and is recited amongst the devotees with much fervor on Janmashtami.
