Radha Ashtami 

Radha Ashtami is celebrated 15 days after Janmashtmi that commemorates Shri Krishna’s birth anniversary. Radha Rani was known to be the avatar of Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that Radha Rani was born or rather found lying on a lotus leaf in a pond of Barsana. She was picked up by a couple Keerti and Vrishbhanu who did not have a child of their own and adopted her. It is also believed that the little girl didn’t open her eyes till Shri Krishna appeared before her. Hindu scriptures describe Radha as Lord Krishna’s spiritual energy and whoever observes the Radha Ashtami Vrat (fast) will be blessed with a happy and prosperous life.

How is Radha Ashtami Celebrated?

Radha Ashtami is celebrated with a lot of excitement and enthusiasm in Vrindavan and surrounding areas in the state of Uttar Pradesh. On the day of Radha Ashtami, devotees wake up before sunrise and spend the day worshiping Radha Rani. Some of them observe a fast and offer prayers to both Radha Rani and Shri Krishna. Women bathe Radha Rani idols and perform an  abhishek with Panchamrit, which includes milk, yogurt, ghee, jaggery, and honey. The idol is then adorned with beautiful new clothes and fresh flowers. The devotees offer shringar items to the deity along with bhog and dhoop. Aartis are sung and prasad is served to the devotees.