Janmashtami 2023: Fasting Rules – The Do’s and Don’ts Every Devotee Should Keep in Mind

Janmashtami 2023: Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, occurring on the Ashtami of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Sawan or Bhado. In 2023, it will be observed on September 6 or 7 due to muhurat timings, typically falling in August or September. Many devotees observe fast on the day, however, it is crucial for every devotee to be aware of do’s and don’ts as well to seek auspicious blessings.

While Mathura and Vrindavan, renowned as the birthplaces of Lord Krishna where he also spent his childhood, serve as the primary places for Janmashtami festivities in India, the festival is also joyously observed in various other regions of the country. Janmashtami celebrations encompass fasting, adorning and worshipping Lord Krishna’s idol, and making delicious dishes cherished by the deity. It’s important to note that, like many Hindu festivals, Janmashtami fasting has specific rules that must be observed attentively.

Typically, the Janmashtami fast lasts for 24 hours, commencing after midnight during the puja muhurat and concluding with a midnight feast the following night. Here are some essential points to consider when observing the Krishna Janmashtami fast.

DO’S

1. Adhere to the Sankalp: Begin your Janmashtami fast with a solemn pledge to devoutly follow fasting rules, but always prioritize your health. If you are unwell, pregnant, or have diabetes, consider skipping the fast and opt for a sattvik diet for the day instead.
2. Create Special Prasad: An important part of Janmashtami festivities is the preparation of special offerings for Lord Krishna at home. In addition to homemade butter and Panchamrit, consider preparing other delectable dishes like Panjiri, Seedai, Peda, Gajak, and kheer as offerings.
3. Sattvik Eating: Encourage both fasting and non-fasting individuals to consume a sattvik diet on Janmashtami. This entails avoiding Rajasic and Tamasic foods such as onions, garlic, meat, and alcohol.
4. Opt for a Nutritious Pre-Fasting Meal: Given the 24-hour duration of the Krishna Janmashtami fast, ensure your pre-fasting meal provides essential nutrition. Avoid heavy, rich foods and opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and light meals.
5. Enjoy Lord Krishna’s Favorites: Certain foods hold special significance during festivals linked to Lord Vishnu and his incarnation, Lord Krishna. Milk and dairy products like ghee, butter, yogurt, and paneer are especially cherished. Incorporate these into your sattvik Janmashtami diet.

DON’TS

1. Non-Veg: Even if you’re not observing the Janmashtami fast, refrain from consuming all Tamasic and Rajasic foods on this day. This includes avoiding non-vegetarian dishes in any form, as well as abstaining from onions, garlic, rice, wheat, and alcohol. Instead, focus on Sattvik foods and ingredients for Janmashtami.
2. Pass on Tea and Coffee: While milk is permitted during the Janmashtami fast, it’s best to refrain from beverages like tea and coffee, which can cause indigestion and acidity while fasting. Instead, opt for healthier options like lassi, chaas, or smoothies if needed.
3. Use Separate Utensils: Ensure that the utensils you use for Janmashtami food preparation and prasad are clean and ideally designated for puja and special ritualistic occasions. If not, make certain they have never been used to cook, serve, or store non-vegetarian food.
4. Avoid Oily items: Traditional pre-fasting and post-fasting meals often consist of fried foods and snacks like puri sabji, samosa, and pakodas. Since fasting can strain the digestive system, consuming these foods may lead to acidity and indigestion. It’s advisable to opt for simple, light meals instead.

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