Ashtami Rohini, also known as Krishna Jayanthi or Janmashtami, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, a beloved deity in Hindu philosophy. This festival is especially vibrant in Kerala and typically falls between August and September, during the Malayalam month of Chingam.

The significance of this day lies in the belief that Krishna’s birth represents the victory of good over evil. It occurs when the Tamil star Rohini aligns with the Ashtami lunar phase, creating a particularly auspicious moment for festivities.

A delightful aspect of the celebration is the preparation of various dishes featuring butter, a favorite of young Krishna. Homes are adorned with colorful decorations, and children often dress up as Krishna, evoking joy and a sense of divine presence.

One charming tradition is drawing small footprints from the doorstep to the pooja room, symbolizing Krishna’s arrival in the home. Many devotees fast throughout the day, breaking their fast only at midnight, the time believed to be when Krishna was born to Vasudev and Devaki in prison.