Radhashtami, the divine appearance day of Srimati Radharani, holds a very special place at Jateri Dham. In 2025, the festival will be celebrated on Friday, 5 September 2025 with great devotion and grandeur. If Janmashtami is the celebration of Krishna’s playful and divine birth, Radhashtami is the festival that honors His eternal consort, Radha Rani, who is considered the embodiment of pure love, devotion, and compassion.
Preparations for Radhashtami begin days in advance at Jateri Dham. The temple and its surroundings are decorated with fragrant flowers, colorful rangolis, and spiritual banners glorifying Radha-Krishna. Devotees, dressed in traditional attire, gather early in the morning to participate in special prayers and kirtans dedicated to Radha Rani. The entire dham resonates with the chanting of “Radhe Radhe,” creating a blissful spiritual atmosphere.
The main highlight of Radhashtami is the abhishek of Radha Rani. The deity is bathed in milk, honey, yogurt, ghee, and holy water, accompanied by melodious bhajans sung by devotees. After the abhishek, Radha Rani is adorned with exquisite clothes and jewelry, symbolizing her supreme beauty and divine grace. The darshan of Radha Rani in her festive attire fills every heart with awe and devotion.
Cultural programs and pravachans are organized throughout the day. Learned saints and devotees share the teachings of Radha Rani, emphasizing her role as the highest devotee and the gateway to Krishna’s mercy. Children perform dances and dramas depicting the divine love between Radha and Krishna, making the celebration both devotional and educational.
Special Annakshetra seva is organized where free meals and prasad are distributed to all visitors, ensuring that every devotee leaves nourished in both body and soul. Many visitors also engage in Gau Seva, considering it a sacred offering to Radha Rani, who is always pleased with the service of cows.
Radhashtami at Jateri Dham is not merely a festival; it is a divine experience of love and surrender. Visitors feel spiritually uplifted, inspired to cultivate the qualities of humility, compassion, and devotion that Radha Rani embodies. For many devotees, attending Radhashtami becomes a turning point in their spiritual journey, strengthening their bond with Radha-Krishna and filling their lives with divine joy.