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Radhashtami () is a Hindu festival commemorating the appearance anniversary of the goddess Radha, the chief consort of the god Krishna. It is celebrated in her birthplace Barsana and the entire Braj region on the eighth day ( ashtami) of the bright fortnight (Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada in Anuradha Nakshatra at 12 noon in town of Barsana (Rawal), Uttar Pradesh, India. As per the Gregorian calendar, her birth date was believed to be 23 September 3221 BC - a Wednesday. Bhadrapada Festivals Radhashtami falls fifteen days after Krishna Janmashtami.
In Vaishnavism, Radha is revered to as the eternal consort of Krishna and worshipped for her unconditional love and unwavering devotion towards him. The festival of Radhashtami suggests that goddess Radha is a significant aspect of the cultural-religious faith system, governing the social life of people.
In the Viṣṇu Khaṇḍa of the Skanda Purana, it is mentioned that God Krishna had 16,000 out of which Goddess Radha was the most prominent one. Radha Ashtami festival Goddess Radha was found on the golden lotus in the pond by king Vrishabhanu and his wife Kirtida. As per folktales, Radha did not open her eyes to see the world until Krishna himself appeared in front of her.
Traditionally, followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism (which includes ISKCON devotees) and devotees of goddess Radha observe the Radha Ashtami Vrat (fast). Devotees usually follow a half-day Fasting on this day. But, like ekadashi, some devotees observe this fast for full day and some even without water. In ISKCON temples Abhisheka (a bathing ritual) of Radharani is done on this day.
Radhashtami is ceremoniously celebrated in the Braj area. On Radhashtami, Radha Krishna idols are traditionally dressed entirely in flowers. Additionally, Radhashtami is the only day on which devotees may receive darshan (viewing) of Radha's feet. On all other days, they remain covered.
Radhashtami begins with a ritual bath. In homes and temples, idol of goddess Radha is bathed with Panchamrita - a combination of five different food mixes of milk, ghee, honey, sugar/jaggery and yogurt and then she is dressed in new attire. Braj Cuisine like Panchamrit are also prepared as an offering. She is then offered bhog (food). On this day, devotees sing devotional songs in praise of the divine couple Radha Krishna and their pastimes. Later, feast is served as prasada to celebrate this day.
The mantras which are chanted on Radhashtami are: Aum Vrashbahnujaye Vidmahe, Krishnapriyaye Dheemahi Tanno Radha Prachodaya ( Radha Gayatri Mantra) and Radhe Radhe.
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