Vrindavan Today | Bureau Report
April 18th, 2026 : On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, temples across Braj – Vrindavan traditionally apply sandalwood paste (Chandan) to the deities, allowing devotees to have sarvang darshan, the complete divine view. However, the centuries old Shri Radharaman Temple follows a unique and remarkable tradition that sets it apart.
Here, Thakur Radharaman Lal is adorned not just with sandalwood paste, but with a specially crafted attire made entirely of sandalwood, weighing approximately 11 kilograms. This rare and intricate chandan poshak is prepared every year exclusively for Akshaya Tritiya, drawing immense devotion and excitement among devotees.
Preparations for this grand occasion have already begun. The sandalwood required for the attire has been sourced from South India, known for its high quality chandan. The process involves carefully grinding sandalwood pieces and blending them with natural ingredients like camphor, saffron, and other aromatic elements to create a fragrant and durable material suitable for crafting the divine attire.
The tradition dates back to Shri Gopal Bhatt Goswami, one of Vrindavan’s Six Goswamis and a revered follower of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It is believed that Thakur Shri Radharaman manifested on his own from a Shaligram Shila through his intense devotion. Since then, his unique seva traditions have been maintained with deep reverence by the Goswami lineage.
On April 20, devotees will witness the special darshan when Thakur Shri Radharaman, adorned in this exquisite sandalwood attire, will grace the temple. The divine sight is expected to fill devotees with spiritual joy and devotion.
While sandalwood application is a common ritual in many temples on Akshaya Tritiya, the tradition of creating an entire garment from sandalwood remains exclusive to Radharaman Temple, making it one of Vrindavan’s most cherished and distinctive spiritual practices.
