2024.12.07 (Vrindavan Today News): The Laadli ji Temple in Barsana is poised for a historic transformation. Come the next full moon, devotees will witness an extraordinary moment as Radha Rani graces them with her presence, accompanied not only by her cherished companions Lalita and Vishakha but also her full ensemble of eight principal sakhis. This celestial gathering has set the stage for a grand celebration, with preparations already underway among devotees and temple custodians.
For decades, Radha Rani has traditionally appeared alongside her two closest sakhis, Lalita and Vishakha. Now, in a momentous addition, the full cohort of sakhis—Lalita, Vishakha, Rangadevi, Sudevi, Tungavidya, Indulekha, Champakalata, and Chitra—will join her. These divine companions, each carrying symbolic items such as paan beeda (betel leaf rolls), fragrant attars, flower garlands, musical instruments, and other sacred offerings, will present a vision of unmatched spiritual and aesthetic grandeur.
The installation of these intricately designed deities is a feat of craftsmanship and devotion. Commissioned by the Hanuman Trust in Chennai, the statues are being sculpted by master artisans from Senganoor, Tamil Nadu, using a blend of gold and silver. These deities will arrive at Barsana on December 10, marking a significant milestone in the temple’s history.
The Trust is also undertaking the restoration of the temple at an estimated cost of ₹25 crores. This ambitious project includes the construction of a magnificent Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) to house the newly crafted deities. The Sheesh Mahal, designed to enhance the spiritual experience of devotees, is expected to take some time before it is fully completed. The restoration will also include upgrades to temple infrastructure, including arrangements for community feasts. However, once the project is completed, restrictions on hosting such feasts inside the temple premises will be enforced.
“Hanuman Trust is committed to reviving the historic splendor of the Radha Rani Temple,” said Umashankar Goswami, a senior sevayat (priest) at the temple. “The deities of the eight sakhis will be ceremoniously installed, and their darshan will be offered to devotees on special festivals, starting with the upcoming full moon.” On regular days, Radha Rani will continue to offer darshan alongside four of her sakhis.
This restoration project is more than a renovation; it is a cultural and spiritual renaissance for one of India’s most revered temples. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern resources, the Hanuman Trust is ensuring that the legacy of Barsana and its divine traditions continues to inspire generations to come.
For devotees and admirers of Radha Rani worldwide, this event signifies a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the divine grace of Radha Rani and her sakhis, celebrating their eternal bond of love and devotion in the heartland of Braj.
