Janmashtami is the divine appearance day of Lord Sri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. He appeared as the 8th child of Vasudeva and Devaki. The 7th child was Lord Balarama, symbolizing the spiritual master (Guru). The first six pregnancies of Devaki were destroyed—representing the six anarthas: Kama (lust), Krodha (anger), Lobha (greed), Moha (illusion), Mada (pride), and Matsarya (envy).

When these impurities are cleansed from our hearts and we take shelter of the spiritual master (Balarama), Krishna can appear in our hearts and lives too.