Janmashtami 2026: September 4 or 5? Know the Correct Date, Puja Muhurat, Vrat Rules & Rituals

When Is Krishna's Birthday?

The much-awaited festival of Lord Krishnas birth will be celebrated with devotion and grandeur this year. But is Janmashtami on September 4 or September 5? Heres everything you need to know about the date, puja timings, fasting and rituals.

Janmashtami Falls On September 4

According to the Panchang, Krishna Janmashtami 2026 will be observed on Friday, September 4. The confusion arises because the midnight puja continues into the early hours of September 5.

Why Does September 5 Also Appear?

The Krishna Paksha Ashtami Tithi begins at 2:25 AM on September 4 and ends at 12:13 AM on September 5. Since Krishnas birth is traditionally celebrated at midnight, the most important puja naturally crosses into September 5.

Midnight Puja Timings

The Nishita Puja timing varies depending on the city. New Delhi: 11:57 PM – 12:43 AM Mumbai: 12:14 AM – 1:01 AM Chandigarh: 11:59 PM – 12:45 AM Jaipur: 12:03 AM – 12:49 AM Bengaluru: 11:55 PM – 12:42 AM Kolkata: 11:13 PM – 11:59 PM

Krishna Was Born At Midnight

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Krishna was born at midnight to Devaki and Vasudev in Mathura. Vasudev then carried the newborn Krishna across the Yamuna to Gokul, where he was raised by Yashoda and Nanda. Janmashtamis midnight celebration symbolically marks this divine birth.

How Do Devotees Observe The Fast?

Many devotees observe a day-long Janmashtami vrat. Some follow a Nirjala fast, while others observe a lighter Phalahar vrat, consuming fruits, milk and other permitted foods. Fasting practices can differ according to family and religious traditions.

When Is Parana Done?

Many devotees break their fast after the midnight Nishita Puja is completed. However, some traditions recommend waiting until after sunrise on September 5. The exact practice can vary according to the familys tradition and the Panchang being followed. 10

From Laddu Gopal To Makhan-Mishri

At night, devotees bathe and dress the Bal Gopal idol, decorate a cradle and prepare special offerings. Panchamrit, makhan-mishri and Tulsi leaves are among the traditional offerings made during the celebrations. Bhajans, kirtans and temple decorations add to the festive atmosphere.

Dahi Handi On September 5

The celebrations continue after Janmashtami with Nandotsav and Dahi Handi. Teams form human pyramids to reach and break a pot filled with curd. The tradition is especially popular in Maharashtra and celebrates Krishnas playful childhood association with butter and curd.