Janmashtami 2026- Exact Date, Puja Muhurat & Festival Overview
Janmashtami 2026 will be celebrated on 2nd September, Wednesday.
Ashtami Tithi begins at 11:21 AM and puja is held during Nishita Kaal (11:59 PM – 12:44 AM).
Janmashtami 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, 2nd September 2026, to mark the birth of Lord Krishna, the 8th avatar of Vishnu.
According to Hindu Panchang, Krishna Janmashtami falls on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha during the Bhadrapada month. Below is the accurate muhurat, puja timing, fasting rules, and scientific meaning of celebrating Krishna Janmashtami 2026.
To know about all the dates about Holi in 2026 to Diwali 2026 Check our full Festival Calendar 2026🗓️
Janmashtami 2026 Date and Time: Ashtami Tithi & Nishita Puja Muhurat
| Detail | Timing (IST) |
|---|---|
| Janmashtami 2026 Date | Wednesday, 2nd September 2026 |
| Ashtami Tithi Begins | 11:21 AM on 2nd September 2026 |
| Ashtami Tithi Ends | 1:53 PM on 3rd September 2026 |
| Rohini Nakshatra Begins | 10:08 PM on 2nd September 2026 |
| Rohini Nakshatra Ends | 12:32 AM on 4th September 2026 |
| Nishita Kaal Puja Muhurat | 11:59 PM to 12:44 AM (midnight) |
| Parana Time for Fast Breaking | After 1:53 PM on 3rd September 2026 |
Note: Timings may vary slightly based on location. Use Drik Panchang or local Hindu calendar for city-wise adjustments.
Why Janmashtami Is Celebrated at Midnight – The Spiritual Meaning
The word “Janmashtami” is made up of two Sanskrit words:
“Janma” meaning birth
“Ashtami” meaning eighth day (tithi) of the lunar fortnight
Lord Krishna was born at midnight on the Ashtami tithi (eighth day) during the Krishna Paksha of the month of Bhadrapada, under the Rohini Nakshatra. This is why the festival is known as Krishna Janmashtami, celebrating the divine birth of the 8th avatar of Vishnu.
This time is known as Nishita Kaal, considered highly auspicious. Worshiping Krishna at this time brings blessings, protection from evil, and fulfillment of desires.
Puja Vidhi for Janmashtami 2026
Clean the puja area and decorate it with flowers and lights.
Place Bal Gopal idol or cradle (Jhula) in the center.
Offer panchamrit (milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar).
Sing Krishna bhajans and perform aarti during Nishita Kaal.
Offer tulsi, makhan, misri, and sweets like panjiri.
Conclude with aarti and Krishna Janmotsav celebration at midnight.
Janmashtami Puja Essentials 2026 – Must-Have Items for Home Celebration
- Brass Krishna idol with Jhula
- Pure Cow Ghee for Diya
- Tulsi Mala for offering
- Makhan Misri Pack
- Janmashtami Puja Kit
Puja Samagri or Ritual Guide → Complete Janmashtami Puja Samagri List & Procedure
Janmashtami 2026 Fasting Rules (Vrat Vidhi) – What to Eat & Avoid
Devotees observe nirjala fast (without water) or phalahar fast (just fruits & milk).
Avoid grains, rice, onion, and garlic.
Fast ends after midnight puja or Parana time the next day.
Pregnant women, elderly, and children can follow a relaxed fast.
Scientific and Symbolic Significance of Janmashtami Festival
- Krishna’s birth in darkness symbolizes hope in despair.
- Midnight marks a psychological rebirth, removing ego and ignorance.
- The fast detoxifies the body and promotes mental discipline.
- Jhula and butter offerings connect us to the childlike joy and playfulness of Krishna.
Related Janmashtami 2026 Articles You’ll Love (Explore More)
Janmashtami 2026: Most Asked Questions
What is the date of Janmashtami in 2026?
Janmashtami 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, 2nd September 2026.
Why is Janmashtami celebrated?
Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura on the Ashtami tithi of Bhadrapada month.
What is the best time to perform Krishna Janmashtami puja in 2026?
The most auspicious time for Janmashtami puja is during the Nishita Kaal, between 11:59 PM and 12:44 AM, midnight of 2nd–3rd September 2026.
What is Nishita Kaal in Janmashtami?
Nishita Kaal is the midnight period considered sacred for Krishna’s birth. Devotees perform Krishna Janmotsav rituals during this time.
Which tithi is Krishna Janmashtami celebrated on?
Janmashtami is celebrated on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Bhadrapada month (according to Hindu calendar).
Can we eat during Janmashtami fast?
Yes, you can follow a phalahar fast, consuming fruits, milk, and non-grain sattvic food. Nirjala vrat (without water) is optional for strict devotees.
When should Janmashtami fast be broken in 2026?
The fast can be broken after the Ashtami Tithi ends, which is after 1:53 PM on 3rd September 2026.
What is the meaning of Janmashtami?
The word Janmashtami is derived from two Sanskrit words:
Janma = birth
Ashtami = eighth day
It signifies the birth of Lord Krishna on the eighth lunar day of the dark fortnight.
What are the must-have items for Janmashtami puja at home?
Essential puja items include:
Krishna idol or Jhula
Panchamrit
Makhan misri
Tulsi leaves
Cow ghee diya
Puja thali and bhajans
Is Janmashtami a public holiday in India in 2026?
Yes, Janmashtami is a gazetted holiday in many Indian states and will be observed on Wednesday, 2nd September 2026.
Janmashtami 2026 will be celebrated on 2nd September, Wednesday.
Ashtami Tithi begins at 11:21 AM and puja is held during Nishita Kaal (11:59 PM – 12:44 AM).