Radha Ashtami 2025: Date, Auspicious Muhurat, Puranic Tales and Puja Vidhi
By Pt. Sanjeev Sharma
Celebration of Shri Radha Rani’s Appearance, Devotee Stories, Astrological Insights and Regional Festivities
Table of Contents
Radha Ashtami celebrates the appearance day of Shri Radha Rani. It falls on Shukla Paksha Ashtami of Bhadrapada. In 2025 it will be observed on Sunday, 31 August.
The Ashtami Tithi begins at 10:46 PM on 30 August and ends at 12:57 AM on 1 September. The main puja muhurat lasts from 02:31 PM to 05:56 PM. The special midday window is 11:09 AM to 01:36 PM.
Birth of Shri Radha and the Brahma Muhurat Miracle
According to legend King Vrishabhanu discovered baby Radha on a golden lotus at the riverbank. He found her with closed eyes and radiant light. This event is linked to Brahma Muhurat when the Goddess appeared as Mohini.
Radha later joined Krishna in the Govardhan lifting. Her eight sakhis remained devoted friends. Her love made Vrindavan a place of divine beauty.
Puranic Inspiration and the Dance of Divine Love
Scriptures narrate that during the Rasa festival Radha’s dance entranced the gods. Her expression in that divine dance symbolizes the essence of Bhakti.
Puja Vidhi: Steps of Devotion
Clean the worship space and place Radha-Krishna idols. Take a pre-dawn bath and prepare.
- Panchamrita Abhishek with milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar
- Chant Radha Sahasranama and recite the Radhashtakam
- Offer flowers, rice, incense and lamps
- Break the fast with favorite sweets and fruits of Radha
Astrological Significance and Emotional Impact
The conjunction of Mercury and Jupiter on Ashtami brings inner calm. Shravana Nakshatra fosters creativity and compassion.
Regional Celebrations and Community Events
In Barsana temples glow with lamp decorations. Raval features birth celebrations by night. In Vrindavan devotees lose themselves in Radha-Krishna processions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is Radha Ashtami celebrated?
A1: To honor the appearance and divine love of Shri Radha Rani.
Q2: What is the puja muhurat?
A2: From 02:31 PM to 05:56 PM.
Q3: When is the Ashtami Tithi and Parana time?
A3: The Tithi is 10:46 PM on 30 August to 12:57 AM on 1 September. Parana after noon on 1 September.
Q4: What is the importance of Radha Sahasranama?
A4: It deepens devotion and purifies the mind.
Q5: How is the festival observed in Raval?
A5: With overnight vigils, bhajan gatherings and prasad distribution.
