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Ashtami Rohini festival in 2025 falls on Sun, 14th September according to the predictions by SearchIndia. Ashtami Rohini is a malayalam festival and is celebrated by Malayalees or Kerala people. Ashtami Rohini is celebrated as one of the 6 Malayalam Festivals by Malayalees or Kerala people and celebrations and rituals remarking Ashtami Rohini is carried out differently in different parts.
Ashtami Rohini, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival celebrated with immense devotion across India, particularly in the southern state of Kerala. This auspicious occasion marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, and falls on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in the month of Shravana or Bhadrapada, which typically corresponds to August or September in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is named after the Rohini Nakshatra (star) under which Lord Krishna was born.
Ashtami Rohini holds profound spiritual significance as it commemorates the divine incarnation of Lord Krishna, who is revered for his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita and his role in the epic Mahabharata. Devotees celebrate this day with great enthusiasm, reflecting on the life and teachings of Krishna, who is considered the embodiment of love, compassion, and righteousness.
The celebrations of Ashtami Rohini are marked by various rituals and festivities that capture the essence of Krishna's playful and divine nature. Devotees observe fasting, engage in prayer, and participate in special pujas dedicated to Lord Krishna. Temples and homes are beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and rangoli (colorful patterns), creating an atmosphere of joy and devotion.
A unique aspect of Ashtami Rohini is the enactment of Krishna's childhood pastimes, known as "Krishna Leela." These include the "Uriyadi" or "Dahi Handi" event, where young men form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd, symbolizing Krishna's love for butter. This event is accompanied by music, dance, and the chanting of devotional songs, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
In Kerala, Ashtami Rohini is celebrated with special fervor, with devotees visiting temples such as the Guruvayur Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple rituals include the recitation of the Bhagavad Gita, the singing of bhajans (devotional songs), and the offering of special dishes like "Palpayasam" (sweet milk pudding) to the deity. Devotees also engage in "Bhagavata Sapthaham," a week-long reading of the Bhagavata Purana, which narrates the life and teachings of Krishna.
In addition to temple celebrations, Ashtami Rohini is observed in homes, where families come together to perform special prayers and rituals. Children often dress up as little Krishnas and Radhas, adding to the festive spirit. The day is also marked by acts of charity and kindness, reflecting Krishna's teachings of love and compassion.
Ashtami Rohini is not only a celebration of Krishna's birth but also a reminder of the timeless values he embodied. The festival underscores the importance of love, devotion, and righteousness, encouraging individuals to lead a life of virtue and spiritual growth.
In contemporary times, Ashtami Rohini continues to be celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion, drawing devotees from all walks of life. The festival serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Hinduism, offering an opportunity for devotees to connect with the divine and seek blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life.
In conclusion, Ashtami Rohini is a spiritually enriching festival that celebrates the divine birth of Lord Krishna and his eternal teachings. Its observance is a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition, providing devotees with an opportunity to seek divine blessings and embrace the values of love, compassion, and righteousness. As families and communities come together to celebrate Ashtami Rohini, they are reminded of the timeless teachings of Krishna and the eternal blessings of the divine.