09/18/2026
Today, September 18, 2026: Radhastami – the appearance of Srimati Radharani
Radhastami, the festival celebrating the divine appearance of Srimati Radharani, is one of the most revered occasions in Vrindavan Dham. On this sacred day, devotees fervently celebrate the appearance of Sri Krishna’s eternal beloved—the embodiment of pure love and devotion.
For the devotees of Vrindavan, Radharani is not merely worshipped as Krishna’s beloved; she is the very embodiment of *Krishna-prema*, the pure and selfless love for the Supreme Lord.
Her appearance fills Vrindavan with divine sweetness and reminds us of the supreme ideal of devotional service: loving Krishna solely for His pleasure.
The Divine Appearance of Srimati Radharani
According to Vedic scriptures, Srimati Radharani appeared in the sacred village of Rawal, near Vrindavan, to Maharaja Vrishabhanu and Mother Kirtida.
She appeared as the most beautiful and radiant child, bringing immense joy to her parents and the entire community of Vraja.
Later, her family moved to Barsana, a place that became intimately linked to her divine pastimes.
From the moment of her appearance, Radharani was surrounded by an atmosphere of divine love and joy.
Sri Krishna’s Supreme Beloved
Srimati Radharani is the eternal beloved of Sri Krishna and the greatest example of pure devotional love.
Her love for Krishna is completely selfless. She desires nothing for herself; her only wish is to make Krishna happy.
This represents the highest expression of *prema-bhakti*—loving the Lord without expecting anything in return. The Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition teaches that by receiving the mercy of Srimati Radharani, one can draw closer to Sri Krishna and develop authentic devotion.
Radharani and the Sweetness of Vrindavan
Vrindavan is especially dear to devotees because it is the setting for Sri Krishna’s most intimate pastimes with Srimati Radharani and the devotees of Vraja.
The groves, forests, the Yamuna River, and the sacred sites of Vrindavan are imbued with memories of their divine pastimes.
That is why devotees often pray with love:
"Radhe Radhe!"
Radharani’s very name carries the sweetness of Vrindavan and awakens the memory of loving service rendered to Sri Krishna.
Why Is Radhastami So Special?
Radhastami is an occasion to remember Srimati Radharani’s unparalleled devotion and to seek her mercy.
On this sacred day, devotees gather to hear of her glories, chant the Holy Names, sing devotional songs, offer prayers, and celebrate her divine appearance with great joy.
This festival is not merely a celebration of her appearance; it is a reminder of the supreme perfection of love and devotion. Celebrating Radhastami with Devotion
Devotees can celebrate Radhastami by:
● Chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra with sincerity
● Hearing about the glories and pastimes of Srimati Radharani
● Offering prayers and devotional offerings
● Participating in Kirtan and Darshan
● Serving Vaishnavas and devotees
● Contemplating Radharani’s state of mind—wholly dedicated to the service of Sri Krishna
The most significant aspect of the celebration is sincerely praying for the quality Srimati Radharani embodies most perfectly: selfless love and loving service to Krishna.
Seeking the Mercy of Srimati Radharani
In Gaudiya Vaishnavism, devotees especially seek the mercy of Srimati Radharani, as she is considered the greatest devotee of Sri Krishna.
Her compassion is celebrated as boundless, and her mercy can help a sincere soul advance on the path of Bhakti.
Therefore, on Radhastami, devotees humbly pray:
"O Srimati Radharani, please grant us the desire to serve Sri Krishna with sincerity, humility, and pure love."
