- By Kashish Rai
- Sat, 09 Nov 2024 01:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Gopashtami 2024: Gopashtami is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the divine bond between Lord Krishna and the cows he herded in Gokul. Observed on the eighth day of Kartik Shukla, this festival honours Krishna's role as a cowherd and the importance of cattle in rural life. This year, Gopashtami will be observed on 9th November 2024. This day is additionally significant as Shri Radha Rani gives divine darshans of her lotus feet or Charan Darshan only on this occasion. She is also dressed by the priests as a Gwala or Cowherd on Gopashtami and leaves her devotees in awe of her divine beauty.
Let us know why Radha Rani dresses up as a Cowherd and gives Charan Darshan once a year only on the occasion of Gopashtami below:
Gopashtami 2024: Why Radha Rani Dresses Up As Cowherd And Gives Darshans Of Her Lotus Feet (Charan Darshan) Only On Gopashtami?
In Hindu tradition, Radharani's hidden feet are revealed once a year, disguised as her friend Subala. This unique event commemorates an intimate pastime between Radharani and Lord Krishna. Krishna, overwhelmed with longing for Radha Rani, asked Subala to bring her to him. Subala devised a plan, swapping clothes with Radha Rani to deceive her watchful mother-in-law, Jatila.
Disguised as Subala, Radharani approached Krishna with a calf. Krishna didn't recognise her and lamented Subala's failure to bring Radha. Radharani, still in disguise, playfully offered to fetch Candravali instead. Krishna rejected the idea, yearning only for Radha. Finally, Radharani revealed her true identity, embracing Krishna and ending his distress.
Radha Rani gives special charan darshan only on Gopashtami, dressed as a Gwala. (Image Source: ISKCON Vrindavan)
This enchanting pastime is celebrated during Kartik month, particularly on Radharani's special day, when devotees seek her blessings for deeper devotion to Krishna. By honouring Radharani's selfless love, devotees strengthen their connection with Krishna. This sacred event reminds us that true devotion requires selfless love and surrender. Through bhakti practices like chanting, hearing, and remembering Krishna's glories, devotees deepen their commitment to spiritual growth. Radharani's hidden lotus feet, briefly revealed, symbolise the rare opportunity to experience her divine love and guidance.