Today is the most sacred Bhadrapada Shukla Saptami, celebrated as the divine appearance day of Sri Lalita Devi, the foremost and eternal companion of Srimati Radharani. One day before Sri Radha Ashtami, the devotees of Vraja and the whole world bow down at the lotus feet of Lalita Devi, without whose mercy no soul can enter into the confidential service of Sri Radha Krishna.
🌼 The Glory of Sri Lalita Devi
Sri Lalita Devi is the chief among the asta sakhis. She is the leader of all gopis, the commander of the transcendental pastimes of Vrindavana.
She is always absorbed in the service of Srimati Radharani, decorating Her, preparing Her meeting with Sri Krishna, and defending Her honor.
She is fearless, chastising Krishna Himself when He neglects Radharani, thus protecting the sanctity of Their divine love.
She embodies pure prema bhakti, fiery yet compassionate, strict yet overflowing with mercy.
All the gopis act under her guidance, and she is the eternal well-wisher of every devotee aspiring for service to Radha Madhava.
The Goswamis explain: without Lalita Devi’s recommendation, one cannot attain the service of Srimati Radhika.
🕉️ How Devotees Observe Lalita Saptami
Sacred Snana and Puja – In the early morning, devotees bathe and perform puja to Sri Radha Krishna along with Sri Lalita Devi, offering flowers, sandal paste, fruits, sweets, and heartfelt prayers.
Fasting and Vrata – Many observe a day-long fast, dedicating all time to the chanting of the Holy Name and remembrance of Lalita Devi’s glories.
Recitation of Stotras – The Sri Lalitashtakam composed by Sri Rupa Goswami is recited, along with bhajans glorifying her seva and mercy.
Visiting Holy Tirthas – Fortunate souls go on pilgrimage to Lalita kunda in Vrindavana and Unchagaon, her place of appearance, where her footprints and cooking utensils are preserved as sacred relics.
✨ The Blessings of Worship
By sincerely worshipping Sri Lalita Devi on this holy day:
The heart becomes cleansed of anarthas and worldly obstacles.
One develops unshakable devotion to Sri Radha Krishna.
Householders receive blessings for harmony, protection, and prosperity.
Most importantly, the path to Radha dasyam (service to Srimati Radharani) becomes open, for only by the mercy of Lalita Devi can a devotee approach Radha.