Why Does It Rain on Every Janmashtami?

It is a popular belief, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, that rain often accompanies Janmashtami, commemorating the birth of Lord Krishna. While it may not literally rain in every location on every single Janmashtami, this association stems from the dramatic circumstances surrounding Krishna's birth.

The Mythological Significance of Rain

According to ancient scriptures and oral traditions, the night of Lord Krishna's birth was marked by extraordinary weather conditions. This divine phenomenon is considered a significant part of the narrative:

• A Stormy Night: It is recounted that the night Krishna was born was extremely stormy, characterized by heavy rains and thunder.
• The Yamuna River's Fury: Lord Krishna's father, Vasudev, had to undertake the perilous journey to carry the newborn Krishna across the Yamuna river from Mathura to Gokul to ensure his safety. During this journey, the river was said to be overflowing due to a sudden and intense flood, posing a formidable challenge.
• Divine Intervention: The rain and the overflowing river are often interpreted as natural elements reacting to the divine event of the Lord's advent, or as obstacles that were overcome through divine grace, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of his birth.

This strong mythological connection has led to the popular belief that rain is an auspicious sign on Janmashtami, a remembrance of the conditions under which Krishna entered the world.

Meteorological Context

It's also important to note that Janmashtami typically falls during the monsoon season in India (August-September). Therefore, the occurrence of rain around this time is often a natural meteorological phenomenon, coinciding with the period of widespread rainfall across the subcontinent. This natural timing further reinforces the traditional belief.

While the belief in rain on Janmashtami is a cherished part of the festival's lore, it reflects both a profound mythological narrative and a natural seasonal pattern.