Krishna Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, is being observed with traditional fervor across India on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the nation on this auspicious occasion. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi conveyed his heartfelt wishes, expressing hope that the festival would infuse new energy and enthusiasm into everyone's lives. "Heartfelt Janmashtami greetings to all countrymen. May this sacred festival of faith, joy, and enthusiasm infuse new energy and zeal into your lives. Jai Shri Krishna!" he wrote.
Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also conveyed his greetings, highlighting the joyous celebrations surrounding the Dahi Handi tradition, which is an integral part of Janmashtami festivities, especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat. Dahi Handi involves forming human pyramids to break a pot suspended high above the ground, filled with curd, butter, and other milk products. This tradition reenacts the mythological story of Lord Krishna's love for butter and his playful attempts to steal it as a child, earning him the endearing nickname "Makhan Chor" (butter thief).
President Droupadi Murmu also extended warm greetings to all Indians, both at home and abroad, on the eve of Shri Krishna Janmashtami. In her message, she emphasized that the life and teachings of Lord Krishna inspire self-development and self-realization, guiding humanity towards the ultimate truth through the path of Dharma. She urged everyone to pledge to follow these teachings to strengthen society and the nation.
Across the country, preparations for Janmashtami and Dahi Handi are in full swing. In Dwarka, Gujarat, special arrangements have been made to accommodate devotees, including dedicated facilities for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and mothers, along with provisions for clean drinking water and enhanced sanitation. Temples and homes are being decorated with flowers, fruits, and sweets, and devotional songs are being sung in anticipation of Lord Krishna's birth. The auspicious Nishita Puja, or midnight worship, will be observed around 12:03 AM to 12:47 AM on August 16.
In Maharashtra, Dahi Handi events are a major attraction, with "Govinda" teams competing to break the pots and win prizes. The state government has recognized Dahi Handi as a sport, launching "Pro Dahi Handi" to provide job opportunities and insurance cover for participants. However, this year, the Bombay High Court declined to grant permission for holding Dahi Handi at Ashok Kedare Chowk in Bhandup West due to law and order concerns, highlighting the complexities involved in managing such large-scale events.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of Janmashtami and Dahi Handi remains strong, with communities coming together to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna and to emulate his playful and divine nature. The Dahi Handi festival is not just a competition but also a display of strength, unity, and strategy, fostering camaraderie and trust among participants. It symbolizes the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve new heights through determination and teamwork.
