Radha Ashtami: Observing the Fast – Do’s and Don’ts

Introduction: Radha Ashtami is a revered festival that falls 15 days after Janmashtami, dedicated to celebrating the birth of Radha Rani, Lord Krishna’s beloved. Also known as Radha Jayanti, this festival is observed on the Ashtami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. Devotees mark this day with fasting, early morning rituals, such as Mangala Aarti, and culminate their fast with sattvik food. On this auspicious occasion, it’s important to adhere to certain do’s and don’ts to ensure a meaningful and spiritual observance.

Radha Ashtami: The Celebration: Radha Ashtami, also known as Radha Jayanti, is a significant Hindu festival that honors the birth of Radha Rani, the beloved companion of Lord Krishna. This day holds great spiritual significance and is celebrated with grandeur and fervor.

In 2023, Radha Ashtami is celebrated on September 23rd.

Radha Ashtami 2023: Do’s and Don’ts for Fasting: Do’s:

1. Wake Up Early: Devotees should wake up early, preferably during Brahm Muhurat, for a spiritual start to the day. Participating in the Mangala Aarti is a wonderful way to begin the celebration.
2. Sankalp (Vow): Those observing a fast on Radha Ashtami should take a vow (sankalp) to adhere to a strict fast until the following day.
3. Fast Duration: For those unable to fast for a full 24 hours, it is advised to fast until Madhyahna Kaal (midday). After performing the puja during Madhyahna Kaal, the fast can be broken.
4. Sattvik Food: Breaking the fast should involve sattvik (pure and wholesome) food only. Sattvik food is considered pure and harmonious, promoting spiritual well-being.

Don’ts: 5. Avoid Tamasic Foods: On Radha Ashtami, the consumption of tamasic foods, including items like onion, garlic, eggs, and meat, is strictly prohibited. These foods are believed to have negative spiritual effects.

6. No Alcohol: Drinking alcohol on this auspicious day is discouraged, as it is believed to bring inauspiciousness and disrupt spiritual practices.
7. Abhishekam: Consider performing abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Radha Krishna and Laddoo Gopal with Gangajal (water from the Ganges) and Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee) during Madhyahna Kaal. Adorn them with flowers, jewelry, and special attire.
8. Offer Bhog Prasad: Prepare and offer homemade Bhog Prasad, which may include Tulsi Patra, Panchamrit, Panjiri, Kheer, Halwa, Malpua, Poori, and Chana.
9. Devotional Songs: Sing devotional songs and bhajans dedicated to Radha Rani, expressing your devotion and love for her.
10. Chanting: Chant various hymns, shlokas, and mantras during the worship of Radha Ji, creating a sacred and spiritual atmosphere.
11. Celibacy: While observing the sacred fast on Radha Ashtami, maintain celibacy, as it is believed to enhance one’s spiritual practice.
12. Avoid Arguments: On this special day, refrain from engaging in arguments or speaking negatively about others, promoting an environment of harmony and peace.

Observing these do’s and don’ts during Radha Ashtami helps ensure a spiritually meaningful and reverent celebration of this significant Hindu festival, dedicated to the divine love of Radha Rani and Lord Krishna.