Janmashtami 2022: What to remember while observing fast?

Shri Krishna Janmashtami is a revered occasion that has a special place in the hearts of those who follow the teachings or the path of Lord Krishna. Also referred to as Gokulashtami, this very special day marks the commemoration of Lord Krishna’s birth. During this festival, devotees are known to fast for as long as 24 hours. They break the fast by consuming the bhog that is prepared for Lord Krishna.

The bhog is consumed by the devotees after they offer their prayers to the deity at midnight.

As per the Hindu calendar, Janmashtami is observed on the Krishna Paksha’s Ashtami, which happens to be the eighth day in Bhadrapada month. In 2022, Ashtami Tithi commences on August 18 at 9:20 p.m. and concludes on August 19 at 10:59 p.m. When you decide to fast during Janmashtami, you must keep a few things in your mind.




A large number of individuals choose to observe nirjala fast during Janmashtami. Nirjala fast, as most people would know, is the kind of fasting where you will have to stay away from food and water. Then, there are many people, who prefer eating ‘vrat ka khaana’ or vrat’s food. If you opt for the latter, you can have a few food items like khichdi, samak rice, sabudana khichdi and kuttu paratha.

While fasting for Janmashtami, a lot of people donate food to the underprivileged. Since Lord Krishna had a very special relationship with cows, many feed cows during this period. When it comes to food to be consumed during Janmashtami, one can’t help but mention curd and milk. If you are not completely abstaining from food and water, you can have sweet lassi or fresh fruits.

As long as you are celebrating Janmashtami, you should refrain from consuming tea and coffee. Having oily food items is also not recommended during this period. It is a well-known fact that one should not be consuming non-vegetarian food during this time. While preparing food at home, you must ensure that you are not using any utensil that is utilised for making non-vegetarian food. No food item that you consume during Janmashtami should have onion or garlic in it.