When it comes to spiritual festivals, the Braj region—comprising Vrindavan, Barsana, Mathura, and Govardhan—is a treasure trove of devotion and celebration. Among the many festivals, Radha Ashtami, the birth anniversary of Shrimati Radharani, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, this festival is a grand tribute to the Goddess of Love and Consort of Shri Krishna.
As someone deeply moved by Braj’s spiritual fervor, I had the privilege of celebrating Radha Ashtami in Barsana—the birthplace of Radharani. Let me take you on a journey through this divine celebration, enriched with personal experiences, insights, and the unparalleled essence of Braj.
Radharani is not just a deity but the epitome of unconditional love, devotion (bhakti), and selflessness. She is considered the Hladini Shakti (pleasure potency) of Lord Krishna and is revered as the soul of Braj.
Sanskrit Shloka:
“Radha-krishna pranayavikritir hladini shaktir asmat;
Ekatmanav api bhuvi pura deha-bhedam gatau tau.”
Translation:
“Radha and Krishna are one soul but appear in two forms; Radha is the pleasure potency of the Supreme Lord.”
Shrimati Radharani was born to Vrishabhanu Maharaj and Mata Kirti in Barsana. According to legend, she appeared as a divine, golden light on a lotus flower in a sacred pond.
A popular Braj saying goes:
“Barsane wali Radhe, tere charanon mein sansaar hai.”
Translation: “O Radha of Barsana, the entire world lies at your feet.”
It is believed that Radharani’s eyes remained closed for years until the moment she heard Krishna’s flute for the first time. Such tales of divine connection make Radha Ashtami an emotional and spiritual highlight for devotees.
Walking through the vibrant streets of Barsana during Radha Ashtami felt like stepping into a divine realm. The air was fragrant with the scent of roses and marigolds, and the sound of kirtans echoed through every corner. Devotees chanted, danced, and expressed their love for Radharani in unique ways.
A local Brajvasis told me:
“Radha rani ke bina to Krishna adhoore hain. Barsana ki mitti bhi unki leela sunati hai.”
Translation: “Without Radha, Krishna is incomplete. Even the soil of Barsana narrates her divine pastimes.”
The day begins with elaborate rituals and abhishek (ceremonial bathing) of Radha’s idol in milk, honey, curd, and ghee. Priests chant Vedic hymns and offer panchamrit (a mixture of five nectars) to the deity.
At the Radha Rani Temple in Barsana, I watched as devotees, young and old, enthusiastically participated in the rituals. Women in colorful sarees sang melodious Braj songs like:
“Radhe Radhe bolo, Radhe Radhe.”
The temples in Barsana and Vrindavan are adorned with flowers, lights, and intricate decorations. At the Radha Rani Temple, a devotee shared:
“Yeh sab seva hai, Radha rani ke darshan ke liye log yahaan duniya bhar se aate hain.”
Translation: “This is all a form of service; people from around the world come here to seek Radha Rani’s blessings.”
Musical devotion is a hallmark of Radha Ashtami. Devotees sing kirtans like:
“Jai Radha Madhav Jai Kunja Bihari.”
The energy of the crowd is infectious, and you can’t help but join in.
Sanskrit Shloka:
“Yasyah kadaksha samapanna vayam bhavabandha mochitah;
Radha rani jaganmata, prasidatu sada hridi.”
Translation:
“May Radha, the Mother of the Universe, whose mere glance liberates us from worldly bondage, always reside in our hearts.”
A unique feature of Radha Ashtami is the Jhulan Leela or swing festival. Devotees recreate the divine pastime of Radha and Krishna swinging together. The beautifully decorated swings are a sight to behold.
I was fortunate to swing the jhula while singing along with locals:
“Jhula jhoolan aayi Radha Rani, Shyam sang rang ras barsani.”
A feast of sweets, fruits, and traditional Braj delicacies like makhan mishri and malpua is distributed among devotees. Sharing this prasad is symbolic of Radha Rani’s love, which binds everyone together.
Radha Ashtami is not just a festival; it is a spiritual journey that connects you with your inner self. Being in Barsana during this celebration made me realize the depth of Radha’s devotion and love.
A local priest at the temple said to me:
“Radha rani ki bhakti ke bina Krishna ka darshan sambhav nahi.”
Translation: “Without Radha’s devotion, one cannot experience Krishna.”
This statement stayed with me, as it encapsulates the essence of Braj’s spirituality.
Radha Rani’s message of unconditional love, selflessness, and devotion is timeless. In today’s fast-paced world, Radha Ashtami reminds us to pause and reflect on these values.
Sanskrit Shloka:
“Radha namne shraddhaya, krishna premavikashini;
Yasyah smaranam matrena, bhaktih syat parama hareh.”
Translation:
“With deep faith in Radha’s name, Krishna’s love flourishes. Merely remembering her brings supreme devotion to the Lord.”
If you cannot visit Braj, you can still celebrate Radha Ashtami at home:
Attending Radha Ashtami in Barsana is an experience that words can barely capture. It is a blend of devotion, culture, and divinity that touches every corner of your soul.
As a devotee said to me while leaving the temple:
“Yahaan Radha rani ka darshan milta hai, toh lagta hai jaise jeevan safal ho gaya.”
Translation: “A glimpse of Radha Rani here makes life feel fulfilled.”
If you ever get the chance, immerse yourself in the love and devotion of Radha Ashtami in Braj. You will leave with a heart full of joy and a soul drenched in divine grace.
“Radhe Radhe!”
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