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Janmashtami, also known as Krishnashtami or Gokulashtami, is the day we celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. His birth is celebrated to honour his divine mission of removing evil and establishing dharma. But what makes his birth so special?
What is the story behind Janmashtami?
Lord Krishna was born in a prison cell in Mathura at midnight, which is why Janmashtami is celebrated at midnight.
His maternal uncle, Kansa, had been told by a divine voice that one of his sister Devaki’s children would kill him. To prevent this, Kansa decided to kill Devaki. However, her husband Vasudeva begged Kansa to spare her and promised to give any child she had to him. Kansa agreed but imprisoned both Devaki and Vasudeva to make sure their children wouldn’t survive.
To protect Krishna, Vasudeva secretly carried him in a basket across the raging Yamuna River to Vrindavan. There, Krishna was safely raised by Yashoda and Nanda. Though Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva, he grew up in Vrindavan with Yashoda and Nanda.
Why is it called Janmashtami?
Because the festival falls on the 8th day of Krishna Paksha, a period of 15 days that starts after Purnima (full moon) and ends with Amavasya (new moon), in the month of Bhadrapada (the sixth month of the Hindu calendar). This month usually occurs in August or September.
The number eight holds special significance because Lord Krishna is both the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu and the eighth child born to his mother, Devaki.
Check out the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu depicted through Bharatnatyam poses.
How is it celebrated?
Since Lord Krishna was fond of eating makhan (butter) and is also known as "Makhan Chor" (the butter thief), people celebrate by playing a sport where an earthen pot or matki filled with makhan is tied high above the ground. Participants then build a human pyramid to reach and break the pot.
The festival is filled with music and dance from devotional songs to Bollywood dance numbers.
Here’s a playlist of 10 Bollywood songs to dance on and enjoy the festive spirit:
1. Maiya Yashoda | Hum Saath Saath Hain | 1999
Apart from the first song in the antaakshari, this song is about the mischievous Lord Krishna, who steals butter and causes trouble, but is also adored for his charming ways. Share this with your friends and remind them of the times when you used to play antaakshari!
2. Chandi Ki Daal Par | Hello Brother | 1999
This dance number playfully captures Lord Krishna’s mischief, his heart-stealing charm, and the challenge of breaking the pot (matki). Play it to make sure the dance floor stays active this Janmashtami!
3. Govinda Aala Re | Rangrezz | 2013
This energetic song highlights Lord Krishna's knack for getting into playful trouble. It captures the lively spirit of his followers and the excitement of his arrival. Add this to your Janmashtami playlist and keep everyone moving on their feet!
4. Har Taraf Hai Ye Shor | Vaastav | 1999
This vibrant track joyfully welcomes Lord Krishna and celebrates the fun and mischief of breaking pots (matki). Play it to keep the vibe alive and excitement to your Janmashtami celebrations!
5. Radha Kaise Na Jale | Lagaan | 2001
This lively song shows Radha’s jealousy when Krishna flirts with other girls. Even though Lord Krishna loves Radha deeply, she can’t help but feel hurt and envious when he interacts with others. Add this song to your playlist to celebrate Krishna and Radha's love this Janmashtami!
6. Mach Gaya Shor | Khud-daar | 1982
This classic track celebrates the ruckus caused by Lord Krishna, who playfully steals butter and hearts. It also warns people to keep an eye on their pots and be careful. Add this one to your Janmashtami playlist and make sure no one can sit still!
7. Vo Kisna Hai | Kisna | 2005
This cult song celebrates Lord Krishna's playful charm and Radha's deep devotion to him. It highlights their special bond and the love that surrounds them. Don’t miss out on this song for your Janmashtami playlist and don’t make anyone stop their feet!
8. Radhe Radhe | Dreamgirl | 2019
This high energy track celebrates Radha's beauty and her special bond with Krishna. It highlights how Krishna feels incomplete without Radha and how their love is eternal. Let your body hit every beat to this dance banger and let the dance never end!
9. Radha Nachegi | Tevar | 2015
This upbeat song celebrates Radha's joyous and passionate dance as she eagerly awaits Krishna. It highlights how Krishna's presence makes her lose herself in dance and love. Don’t hold back to lose yourself with the beat of this song!
10. Go Go Govinda | Oh My God | 2012
This electrifying song is a lively tribute to Lord Krishna's dance and charm. It shows deep devotion, with a promise to always be with Krishna. Add this to your playlist and let all the energy sweat out through dance!
Music and dance are a part of celebrating all Indian festivals. We express our emotions through it, connect with others in our community, and also stay connected to our culture.
So, this Janmashtami, whether you want to sing your heart out or dance with joy, Spardha can help you express every feeling.
Learn to sing or dance with Spardha and CELEBRATE joyfully!
Also, Share this playlist with your friends and family, and wish them:
HAPPY JANMASHTAMI!🪈