Janmashtami 2023: Dos, Don'ts to follow during fasting

The vibrant and spiritually enriching festival of Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, Gokulashtami, Krishnasthami, or Srijayanti, is just around the corner. This revered Hindu festival, which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu, falls on September 6 and 7 this year, on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha during the Bhadrapad month. As devotees prepare to embark on a day of fasting and devotion, it's crucial to keep in mind the dos and don'ts that ensure a meaningful and spiritually uplifting celebration.

2 things you need to know

• Janmashtami will fall on September 6 and 7 this year.
• Fasting is a significant ritual to honour Lord Krishna.

Dos

(People fast on the day Lord Krishna was born | Image: iStock)

Sankalpa (Pledge)

The fast begins with a solemn pledge, a Sankalpa, reaffirming one's unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna. Throughout the day, devotees chant the name of Lord Krishna, immersing themselves in his divine presence.

Pre-fast Meal

To fortify the body for the day ahead, it's advisable to have a pre-fast meal on Janmashtami. Opt for easily digestible foods like fruits or fresh juices, providing the necessary strength and energy.

Generosity

Embrace the spirit of giving, following in the footsteps of Lord Krishna's benevolence. Donate food and clothing to those in need, as this act of kindness is believed to usher in happiness and prosperity.

Satvik Bhojan

Consume only Satvik (pure) foods on Janmashtami. Avoid ingredients like garlic, onion, meat, and alcohol, as they are considered tamasic and not suitable for this holy occasion.

Milk and Curd

Milk and curd hold significant importance in Janmashtami rituals. Devotees can savour fresh fruit shakes, lassi, buttermilk, or rose milk while fasting.

Homemade Prasad

Prepare prasad (offerings) at home to offer to Lord Krishna. Commonly made dishes include Peda, Gheeya ki Lauch, Nariyal Gajak, and other milk-based treats.

Don'ts

Non-Vegetarian Food

Strictly avoid all forms of non-vegetarian food during your fast, as Janmashtami fasting demands a vegetarian diet as a mark of respect for Lord Krishna.

Tea and Coffee

Refrain from consuming tea or coffee, as these beverages can increase acidity and discomfort. Opt for coconut water or fresh juices to stay refreshed.

Harming Animals

In alignment with Lord Krishna's love for all creatures, particularly cows, avoid causing harm to animals. Provide food and water to animals on Janmashtami to foster respect for all living beings.

Fried and Oily Food

Limit your intake of fried and oily foods, as they can be unhealthy and detrimental to your health. Instead, choose fruits, milk, and nutritious liquids for sustenance.

Clean Utensils

Ensure that all utensils used for serving or eating are clean and have not been used previously for non-vegetarian cooking to maintain purity.

Positive Atmosphere

Create a peaceful and joyful atmosphere at home on the day of the Puja. Show special consideration for the elderly and avoid rude or aggressive behaviour, embracing the spirit of love and devotion that Lord Krishna epitomises.