Radha Ashtami is celebrated on the 8th day of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha.
Goddess Radha was born in Barsana, near Vrindavan.
Worship is done during Madhyahna (midday), not sunrise.
Devotees observe a day-long fast in Radha’s honor.
It is one of the key festivals in Vaishnava tradition, next only to Janmashtami.
Details
Radha Ashtami is celebrated as the divine appearance day of Goddess Radha, the eternal consort and supreme devotee of Lord Krishna. It falls on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month, typically in August or September. Devotees observe this sacred occasion by keeping fasts, chanting Radha-Krishna mantras, and offering special prayers, especially during Madhyahna Kala—the midday period, which is considered the most auspicious for worship. Temples dedicated to Radha-Krishna witness grand celebrations, with devotees performing abhishekam, singing bhajans, and reciting her divine glories.
Radha Ashtami holds a special place in the hearts of Vaishnavas, particularly in regions like Vrindavan, Barsana, and Mathura where Radha and Krishna's pastimes are believed to have taken place. The day is also referred to as Radhashtami or Radha Jayanti, and marks not just the birth of a goddess, but the embodiment of divine love, devotion, and selfless surrender. It is believed that only through Radha’s grace can one truly attain Lord Krishna’s blessings. Her birth is celebrated with flowers, kirtan, and rituals that signify her role as the soul of Bhakti (devotion).
