HAPPY RADHASHTAMI

 Radhashtami is a Hindu holy day commemorating the birth anniversary of the goddess Radha, consort of the god 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 (Hindu calendar) month.The festival suggests that Radha is very much an aspect of the cultural-religious faith system governing social life. 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.

The Radharani was born on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the bright fortnight (shukla paksha ashtami) in the month of Bhadrapada month, Anuradha Nakshatra, 12 noon and As per the Gregorian calendar, 23 September 3221 BC - Wednesday at Barsana (Rawal), Uttar Pradesh, India. Goddess Radha was found on the golden lotus in the pond by king Vrishbhanu and his wife Keerti. As per folktales, Radha did not open her eyes to see the world until Lord Krishna himself appeared in front of her.

Traditionally, followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism (ISKCON devotees) and devotees of goddess Radha observe the Radha Ashtami Vrat (fast). Devotees usually follow a half-day fast on this day. But, 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 Braj 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.

On this day, devotees also 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 and Radhe Radhe.




So, 

Enjoy Radhashtami!! 

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