Radha Ashtami marks the birth of Radha Rani, who is considered the embodiment of love, devotion, and purity. She is the eternal consort of Lord Krishna and plays a vital role in the divine leelas (pastimes) of Krishna. This festival comes 15 days after Krishna Janmashtami, the day when Lord Krishna was born.
Devotees believe that worshipping Radha on Radha Ashtami brings immense happiness, love, and prosperity into their lives. It is said that by observing fast and performing puja on this day, one can seek the blessings of Radha and Krishna for a happy and fulfilling life.
Puja Rituals and Fasting on Radha Ashtami
On Radha Ashtami, devotees wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. The day begins with offering prayers to Radha and Krishna. Special puja is conducted in temples, and devotees chant Radha and Krishna's names with devotion.
Here are the steps for the Radha Ashtami puja:
- Prepare the Puja Altar: Clean the puja area and place the idols or pictures of Radha and Krishna on a clean cloth. Decorate the idols with flowers and garlands.
- Offer Puja Items: The puja items include rice (akshat), flowers, red sandalwood, vermillion (roli), incense sticks, lamps (deep), and sweets like khir or ladoos. Panchamrit, a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, sugar, and ghee, is also offered.
- Chant the Mantra: While offering the items, devotees chant the mantra:
"Tvadīyaṁ vastu Govinda tubhyameva samarpaye। Gṛhāṇa sammukho bhūtvā prasīda parameśvara॥"
This mantra signifies offering everything to Radha Rani, as everything is hers by divine right.
- Perform Aarti: After offering the puja items, devotees perform the aarti of Radha and Krishna, praising their love and divine relationship.
- Offer Bhog: Bhog is an important part of Radha Ashtami. Devotees offer five types of bhog to Radha Rani, including Arbi (a root vegetable), Panchamrit, yellow sweets like malpua, fruits, and rabrri. Before eating anything during the fast, devotees first offer the bhog to Radha Rani.
- Observe the Fast: Devotees observe a fast on Radha Ashtami and consume fruits, sweets, and specific dishes made from sabudana, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Kuttu flour pakoras and dishes cooked using rock salt (sendha namak) are also common during the fast. Milk and yogurt can be consumed as part of the diet. It is believed that fasting on this day purifies the mind and body.
Benefits of Worshipping Radha Rani
Radha Ashtami is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and success to devotees. Here are some of the spiritual benefits of observing this festival:
- Strengthening Love and Devotion: Radha symbolizes pure love and devotion. Worshipping her on Radha Ashtami strengthens the bond of love and devotion in one’s life.
- Fulfillment of Wishes: It is believed that those who pray to Radha and Krishna with a pure heart on Radha Ashtami can get their wishes fulfilled.
- Prosperity and Happiness: Devotees believe that Radha Rani’s blessings bring happiness, wealth, and good fortune.
Conclusion
Radha Ashtami is a beautiful festival that celebrates love, devotion, and the divine connection between Radha and Krishna. In 2024, the festival will be observed on 11th September with great enthusiasm. By performing the rituals and fasting on this day, devotees can seek the blessings of Radha Rani for a prosperous and joyful life. May Radha Rani bless you with peace, happiness, and love this Radha Ashtami.