The Janmashtami fast is observed on the Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. In 2025, Janmashtami falls on August 15-16. The fast typically starts on the morning of the Ashtami day (August 15) and is observed until midnight, when devotees perform the Nishita Puja between 12:04 AM and 12:47 AM on August 16, marking the symbolic birth time of Lord Krishna. The fast is broken after this midnight puja or after sunrise on August 17, once the Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra have ended. Key points for Janmashtami fasting:
- Start fasting early morning or before sunrise on Ashtami day (August 15, 2025).
- Observe strict fasting throughout the day, consuming only water or fruits depending on tradition.
- Perform the Nishita Kaal Puja (midnight worship) between 12:04 AM and 12:47 AM on August 16.
- Break the fast after the midnight puja or after sunrise on the next day (August 17), ensuring the end of Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra.
- Avoid grains and certain vegetables during the fast (similar to Ekadashi fasting rules).
- Devotees take a Sankalpa (a vow) to observe the fast with devotion.
This fasting and celebration observe Lord Krishna's birth with devotion, spiritual purity, and traditional rituals.
