Janmashtami 2025, the auspicious Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, will be observed with great devotion and enthusiasm across India and worldwide on Friday, August 15, 2025. Marking the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, this sacred occasion—also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami—holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees observe fasts, perform midnight rituals, and participate in vibrant celebrations including Dahi Handi, bhajan-kirtan, and temple processions.
As one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals, Janmashtami 2025 not only reflects the divine love of Krishna but also attracts pilgrims, cultural enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you're planning a temple visit, joining a traditional celebration, or simply exploring its rich cultural heritage, this festival offers a unique glimpse into India’s devotional spirit and mythological traditions.
History of Krishna Janmashtami
Lord Krishna was born at a time when the world was a chaotic place, and freedom was denied to the people. Mother Earth was unable to handle the burden of sins that innumerable rulers and kings committed. So, according to the legends, Earth went to Lord Brahma to appeal for her safety and the peaceful continuation of life. Lord Brahma, known as the world's creator, turned to the Supreme God, Lord Vishnu, for his help. He assured her that soon he would be born on the planet to get rid of all the evils. Thus, the story of the birth of Lord Krishna celebrated during Krishna Janmashtami, began.
Later, on the day of Devaki and Vasudeva marriage, a holy voice echoed through the sky, prophesying that the eighth son from their marriage would cause Kansa's destruction and eventually end all the tyranny on Earth. Thus, Devaki's brother Kansa became vigilant and ensured that none of the couple's children lived. But he failed to do so and eventually was killed by their eighth son, Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated to remember this divine intervention and the birth of the Saviour.
Read More : Janmashtami Celebrations in India
Celebrations and Traditions
This pious festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which falls in July - August according to the Gregorian calendar. Janmashtami 2025 date in India is the 16th of August. This festival brings families together and strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters, reminding us of the importance of love and protection in our relationships.
Kanha is also worshipped as Svayam Bhagavan. Did you know that he is the source of inspiration for various performance arts as well, such as Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, Odissi, and Manipuri dance forms? The psychedelic charm of Lord Krishna can be witnessed in places like Vrindavan, Jagannath, Odisha, Dwarka, and Junagadh. The much-loved Lord has been given 108 names by his devotees, such as Madhusudan, Navanita Chora, Parthasarathi, Madhava, Yadhunandana, Nandalal, Radhavallabh, Yogeshwara, Govinda, and more, all being used in different places to worship him.
Date, Time, & Venue of Krishna Janmashtami Festival
Event |
Date |
Day |
Time |
Krishna Janmashtami 2025 |
August 15, 2025 |
Friday |
All-day celebrations begin |
Nishita Puja Time (Midnight) |
August 16, 2025 |
Saturday |
12:01 AM to 12:44 AM (43 minutes) |
Ashtami Tithi Begins |
August 15, 2025 |
Friday |
9:32 AM |
Ashtami Tithi Ends |
August 16, 2025 |
Saturday |
11:48 AM |
NOTE: Mahurat Timings can differ.
Top Places to Celebrate Krishna Janmashtami 2025 in India
From Mathura to Dwarka, discover the most iconic venues where Krishna Janmashtami 2025 will be celebrated with grandeur, devotion, and vibrant cultural festivities. These destinations are perfect for spiritual travel and festive experiences.
City |
State |
Famous Venue |
Highlights of Celebration |
Mathura |
Uttar Pradesh |
Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple |
Birthplace of Lord Krishna, midnight aarti, Raas Leela |
Vrindavan |
Uttar Pradesh |
Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple |
Week-long festivities, temple decorations, bhajans |
Dwarka |
Gujarat |
Dwarkadhish Temple |
Grand temple processions, abhishekam rituals |
Mumbai |
Maharashtra |
Dadar, Thane, Ghatkopar (Dahi Handi) |
High-energy Dahi Handi competitions, cultural programs |
Udupi |
Karnataka |
Sri Krishna Matha |
Traditional South Indian rituals, temple chariot processions |
Mayapur |
West Bengal |
ISKCON Mayapur |
International Krishna devotees’ gathering, spiritual kirtan |
Puri |
Odisha |
Jagannath Temple |
Unique temple rituals, festive bhog offerings |
Delhi |
Delhi (NCR) |
ISKCON Delhi, Birla Mandir |
Thematic decorations, live Krishna plays, kirtan concerts |
Are you planning to celebrate this Janmashtami specially? Book your flights or bus tickets to any places where the Janmashtami festival is celebrated with great gusto and fervour. Adotrip is your one-stop platform for comprehensive travel solutions.
Major Attractions of Krishna Janmashtami
Krishna bhakts lovingly use Krishna, Kanha, Gopal, and many other names. Happy Janmashtami is wished all around as Lord Krishna's birth is celebrated worldwide with great fanfare, devotion, and excitement. Preparation to celebrate this day begins early, and cities get decked up to welcome makhanchor. Special prayers are organised in temples, people sing hymns and bhajans, spend time meditating, distribute prasad and sweets, and celebrate the birth of the saviour of the world. Here are some highlights of the festival:
1. Fasting and Jagrans
On this day, people fast, pray, sing, and share sweets with each other. The whole environment oozes bliss, celebration, and enthusiasm. People also participate in night vigils (Jagrans), relishing their lord's bhakti.
2. Krishna Lila
In many temples, Krishna Lilas are organised, depicting the life of Lord Krishna. People come to see and enjoy the birthday of Lord Krishna on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. There are processions, bhajans, kirtans, and Satsang that are organised at many places to celebrate the birthday of the eighth avatar of Vishnu.
3. Janmashtami Food
Janmashtami special foods are prepared with great fervour, and many delightful delicacies are also prepared on this occasion, such as Malai Peda, Makhan Misri & Panjeeri, Shrikhand, Seedai, Murukku, Thatai, Vella Aval, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions About Janmashtami 2025
Q1. What is the date of Krishna Janmashtami 2025?
A1. Krishna Janmashtami 2025 will be celebrated on Friday, August 15, 2025. The Nishita Puja (midnight ritual) will be performed between 12:01 AM to 12:44 AM on August 16.
Q2. What is the significance of Janmashtami?
A2. Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with fasting, bhajans, and reenactments of Krishna’s childhood.
Q3. Where are the biggest Janmashtami 2025 celebrations in India?
A3. The grandest celebrations take place in Mathura, Vrindavan, Dwarka, Mumbai (Dahi Handi), and ISKCON temples across India. These places host temple processions, Raas Leelas, and midnight aartis.
Q4. What are the main rituals of Krishna Janmashtami?
A4. Devotees observe fasting, chant Krishna bhajans, decorate cradles, and perform midnight abhishekam and aarti when Lord Krishna is believed to have been born.
Q5. Can tourists attend Janmashtami celebrations in India?
A5. Yes, tourists are welcome at most major Janmashtami events, especially in places like Mathura, Vrindavan, Dwarka, and ISKCON temples, where cultural and spiritual activities attract visitors from around the world.