The festival of Janmashtami is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna on the *Ashtami* (eighth day) of the dark fortnight (*Krishna Paksha*) of the month of Bhadrapada. On this day, special worship is offered to 'Laddu Gopal' (the infant form of Krishna), and captivating tableaux (*jhankis*) are arranged in temples. According to religious belief, it was on this sacred day that Lord Krishna incarnated on Earth.

Devotees engage in worship from the morning itself, and many observe the fast with deep reverence. While the Janmashtami fast is believed to purify the mind and soul and attract divine grace, one might wonder: if the fast is broken inadvertently—perhaps by eating something by mistake—is the spiritual merit lost? Find out from Acharya Anand Bhardwaj of Ujjain what measures should be taken in such a situation.

**No spiritual fault incurred; follow these remedies**

1. If the Janmashtami fast is broken inadvertently, there is no need to panic. First, fold your hands before Lord Krishna and acknowledge your mistake. Seek forgiveness with a sincere heart and pray that 'Kanha' (Krishna) pardons your error and grants you the spiritual merit of the fast.

2. If you have consumed something by mistake during the fast, you may consume a *Tulsi* (holy basil) leaf afterwards. *Tulsi* is considered extremely sacred in Hinduism. Religious beliefs hold that consuming *Tulsi* helps maintain the purity of the mind and body, and it holds special significance in worship rituals.

3. If the Janmashtami fast is broken by mistake, do not worry. Maintain your faith even after the fast is broken and continuously chant the *Maha-mantra*: "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare." It is believed that this brings peace to the mind and strengthens devotion and faith in Lord Krishna.

4. Feeding a needy person after breaking the fast (*Paran*) is considered auspicious. You may donate clothes, grains, or essential items to the poor according to your means. It is believed that service and charity serve as atonement for any errors made during the fast and ensure that divine blessings remain with you.

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