Krishna Janmashtami, the celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna in the Hindu religion will be celebrated on September 2nd this year.

The date of the holiday falls between the middle of August and middle of September every year. In 2009, it was celebrated on August 14th, and in 2010 it is moved to September 2nd (based on the Gregorian calendar). The Smartha Sects Brahmins have the celebration on September 1st this year instead of the 2nd.

Krishna Janmashtami has different names depending on where one lives or what particular religious belief one has. For example, it can be called any of the following: “Sree Jayanthi”, “Srikrishna Jayanti”, Krishnashtami”,”Saatam Aatham”, “Gokulashtami”, “Janmashtami”, or “Ashtami Rohini”.

Most observers of the celebration fast on the previous day. This year the fast will be taking place tomorrow on September 1st. Once the fast is complete, a prayer is recited, called the “Aarti”.

If you know someone that is Hindu, expect them to be celebrating for the next 2 days. Happy Janmashtami!