Janmashtami is one of the most revered festivals in India, celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm. However, in 2025, devotees are facing confusion over the exact date. Is Janmashtami to be observed on Friday, 15 August, or Saturday, 16 August? The question is particularly important for households deciding when to fast and hold the Krishna Janmotsav celebrations.
According to the Hindu Panchang and traditional customs, this confusion arises because the Ashtami Tithi (eighth lunar day) and Rohini Nakshatra (constellation) fall on separate days this year. To clarify the matter, astrologers and religious scholars have outlined the timings, auspicious muhurat, and differences in observance between household devotees and Vaishnava traditions.
Why Janmashtami falls on two days this year?
As per the Hindu calendar, Lord Krishna was born during the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, under the Rohini Nakshatra. In 2025, the Ashtami Tithi will begin in the afternoon of 15 August and continue until midday on 16 August. The Rohini Nakshatra, however, will start on the morning of 16 August and last until the morning of 17 August.
According to legend, Lord Krishna’s birth took place at midnight, making it auspicious to perform puja during the Rohini Nakshatra. For this reason, some devotees prefer 16 August, while others observe Janmashtami strictly according to Ashtami Tithi, choosing 15 August for the celebrations.
Which date should household devotees observe?
Religious traditions and astrological advice suggest that household devotees (grihasthas) should observe Janmashtami on the Ashtami Tithi itself. Since the Ashtami begins in the afternoon of 15 August and Krishna’s birth is celebrated at midnight, household devotees are advised to keep a fast and celebrate Janmashtami on Friday, 15 August 2025.
Krishna Janmashtami 2025 muhurat for household devotees
Date: Friday, 15 August 2025
Nishita Puja Time: 12:03 am to 12:47 am (44 minutes)
Paran Time: Saturday, 16 August, after 4:08 pm
Difference between household and Vaishnava observance
Household devotees: Most observe the fast and perform the puja as soon as Ashtami Tithi begins. This year, they will fast on 15 August and celebrate Krishna Janmotsav at midnight.
Vaishnava tradition: Vaishnava devotees celebrate based on the combination of Nishita Kaal (midnight) and Rohini Nakshatra. In 2025, this combination falls on 16 August, so Vaishnavas will fast and perform puja on Saturday.
How to perform Janmashtami puja?
Take a vow of fasting and consume only sattvik (pure) food during the day. In the evening, bathe the idol of Lord Krishna with Ganga water, dress Him in new clothes, and adorn Him with ornaments. At midnight, after commemorating Krishna’s birth, place the idol in a decorated cradle and offer makhan (butter), mishri, and sweets. Perform the aarti and distribute prasad among devotees.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)