“Janmashtami,” celebrated by 930 million people around the world, heralds spiritual rejuvenation and the beginning of a new year. These holidays fall in the Hindu month of Shravan and last for two days. The festivities kick off at midnight, as it is believed that Lord Krishna was born at that time in 3228 BCE.
Krishna holds a significant place in Hinduism as one of the most important and beloved deities, known for embodying divine joy and love. His birth and teachings are said to have brought a spiritual renaissance to the world. Krishna’s love is universal, often depicted playing the flute and standing next to a sacred cow.
Throughout his life, Krishna escaped numerous perilous situations, relying on both his wit and his strength and agility. He is revered not only as a divine teacher but also as a symbol of kindling the fire of divine power within everyone. This divine power encourages people to pursue spiritual goals, and Krishna embodies the joy, inspiration, and wisdom found within.
Janmashtami is a joyous celebration
Janmashtami is a joyous celebration, with many people observing a two-day fast without sleep. People sing, and dance, and some enjoy traditional festive foods. At midnight, devotees often break their fast and celebrate Lord Krishna’s birth with great enthusiasm. Special dishes are prepared during the festivities, and these delicacies are believed to be favorites of Lord Krishna.
Many people celebrate Krishna’s birth and the spiritual renewal he brought by making dishes like “Dahi Handi,” “Gopala Kala,” and “Gulab Jamun,” along with other traditional sweets. Celebrations across India involve singing Krishna’s songs, dancing, and revering him through various rituals and performances. Raas Leela, a dramatic representation of scenes from Krishna’s life through joyful dance, is often part of the festivities.
In some communities, especially in Mumbai, people participate in a tradition called “Dahi Handi,” where they form a human pyramid to break an earthen pot filled with curd, symbolizing the playful nature of Lord Krishna.
The city where Krishna spent much of his life
In Dwarka, the city where Krishna spent much of his life, the celebration involves a grand welcome for pilgrims who come for the occasion. Dwarka means “Gateway to Salvation,” and it’s where Lord Krishna is believed to have established his magnificent palaces made of gold, jewels, pearls, and diamonds.
It is said that after Krishna’s departure, the city of Dwarka was submerged in the sea. The events of Dwarka hold a special place in the hearts of people across India. The festival is organized according to Krishna’s daily routine, starting with a morning prayer ceremony. After that, devotees offer “bhog,” or food offerings, to Lord Krishna. Later in the morning, Krishna is bathed, dressed in yellow garments, and adorned with flowers. His divine splendor is then revealed to the devotees. In the evening, another prayer ceremony, called “Nagala Aarti,” is performed, followed by the offering of Lord Krishna’s favorite sweets.
Janmashtami is one of the liveliest and most cherished holidays in Hinduism, celebrated in honor of Lord Krishna’s birth and the spiritual revival he brought. Pilgrims flock to sacred places and temples, and the city sparkles with joyous celebrations as devotees sing hymns and songs in praise of Lord Krishna.
Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Try These Delicious Panjiri Recipes to Celebrate the Auspicious Occasion
Krishna Janmashtami, also commonly known as Janmashtami, is a festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Many devotees visit temples and observe fasts until midnight to seek the blessings of the deity. One essential aspect of this celebration is the prasad (offering) made in the form of various dishes, with panjiri holding a special place among them.
So, what could be a better way to mark the Janmashtami festival than trying out these easy panjiri recipes? Well, we’ve got you covered with three panjiri recipes that you can comfortably attempt at home, thanks to our top chef’s guidance.
Coriander Panjiri
Coriander panjiri, a popular North Indian sweet dish traditionally prepared as prasad during Janmashtami, is a delightful blend of sweetness and nuttiness. Recipe creator and chef Harshita Sharma shared her ‘Janmashtami Special Coriander Panjiri’ recipe on her Instagram.
Ingredients:
- Ghee: 3-4 tablespoons
- Almonds (Badam): 1 cup
- Cashews (Kaju): 1 cup
- Raisins (Kishmish): 1 cup
- Foxnuts (Makhana): 1 cup
- Edible Gum Resin (Gond): 1 cup
- Coriander Powder: 1 cup
- Grated Dry Coconut (Kaddukas Kiya Hua Sukha Nariyal): 1 cup
- Poppy Seeds (Khas-Khas): 2 tablespoons
- Melon Seeds (Kharbooje Ke Beej): 2 tablespoons
- Powdered Sugar/Bura Chini: 4-5 tablespoons
This Coriander Panjiri recipe combines the goodness of various nuts and seeds with ghee and coriander powder to create a delightful sweet treat. Try it out and celebrate Janmashtami with a burst of flavors!”