Radha Ashtami

Radha Ashtami

August-September; eighth day of waning half of Hindu month of BhadrapadaThis Hindu holiday celebrates the birth of Radha, who was the mistress of the god Krishna during the period of his life when he lived among the cowherds of Vrindavana. Although she was the wife of another gopa (cowherd), she was the best-loved of Krishna's consorts and his constant companion. Some Hindus believe that Radha is a symbol of the human soul drawn to the ineffable god Krishna, or the pure, divine love to which the fickle, human love returns.
Images of Radha are bathed on this day and then dressed and ornamented before being offered food and worship. Hindus bathe in the early morning and fast all day to show their devotion to Radha.
SOURCES:
RelHolCal-2004, p. 175