Radhastami


Radhashtami is a Hindu holiday commemorating the birth anniversary of Radha. On this day she emerged from a lotus flower as the lover-consort of the lord Krishna. It is celebrated mainly by devotees of Krishna, especially with great fervor in her birthplace of Barsana, on the Shukla Paksha Ashtami of the Bhadra month. In the Viṣṇu Khaṇḍa of the Skanda Purana, it is mentioned that God Krishna had 16,000 friends called Gopi and gopikas, out of which Radha was the most prominent one of the revered 108.

History and Significance

The Radharani was born on the 8th day of the Shukla Paksha during the Bhadrapada month. She was found and picked up by the Vrishbhanu and Keerti from a pond in Barsana. Her eyes were closed since her birth and was opened when for the first time when Shri Krishna appeared in front of her.

Fasting and Celebration

Traditionally, followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism observe Radha Ashtami Vrat. Devotees will follow a half-day fast on this day. Like Ekadashi, some devotees observe this fast for full day and some even without water. In ISKCON temples Mahabhishek of Radharani is done on this day
Radhashtami is ceremoniously celebrated in the Brij area. On Radhastami, Radha Krishna icons are traditionally dressed entirely in flowers. Additionally, Radhashtami is the only day on which devotees may receive darshan of Radha's feet. On all other days, they remain covered.
Devotees will fast until noon and sing devotional songs in praise of the divine couple and their pastimes. Then a feast is served, most often including the Radha Red — a spicy, plum chutney.
The mantras which are chanted on Radhashtami are; Aum Vrashbahnujaye Vidmahe, Krishnapriyaye Dheemahi Tanno Radha Prachodyat and Jai Jai Shree Radhe.

Significance

The Manimahesh Yatra that starts from the Krishna Janmashtami ends in the Radhastami.