Mumbai: In Hinduism, Janmashtami is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, and this year, the festival falls on 16 August 2025. According to ancient belief, Lord Krishna was born on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, under the Rohini Nakshatra. On this day, temples and households across the country perform midnight puja rituals to welcome Lord Krishna, offering him the ceremonial 56 bhog (56 types of delicacies). Among the offerings, cucumber holds a special and symbolic place in Janmashtami traditions.
At the stroke of midnight, devotees cut a cucumber during the celebration. While it may appear to be a simple custom, its roots run deep in spiritual symbolism. This age-old ritual is linked to the divine birth of Lord Krishna and represents an important moment in the story of his arrival on Earth. But what exactly makes cucumber so significant in this festival? Let’s explore the reason behind this unique tradition.
Religious significance of cucumber on Janmashtami
In Hindu belief, cucumber is associated with the womb. On Janmashtami, it symbolises the womb of Mother Yashoda, making the act of cutting it at midnight a symbolic gesture of Lord Krishna’s birth. When the cucumber is cut and its seeds removed, it represents the cutting of the umbilical cord – the act of separating the newborn from the mother. This is why the ritual is performed exactly at midnight, the time of Lord Krishna’s birth.
Symbolism of the cucumber stem
The stem of the cucumber is regarded as a symbol of the umbilical cord in Hindu tradition. Cutting it signifies the moment Lord Krishna was separated from the womb of Mother Devaki. The belief mirrors the physical act of childbirth, where the umbilical cord is cut to welcome the baby into the world. Thus, cutting the cucumber becomes a sacred enactment of Krishna’s birth.
Blessings of progeny
Cucumber is considered a pure and holy fruit, and offering it to Lord Krishna is seen as auspicious. Many believe it brings blessings of fertility and progeny. In fact, it is said that consuming cucumber as prasad (holy offering) on Janmashtami can help couples wishing for a child to be blessed with one. For pregnant women, cucumber is also considered a sign of good fortune and divine protection.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)