Bengal CM joins devotees in Radha Ashtami celebrations at Kolkata monastery

West Bengal Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari marked the occasion of Radha Ashtami by visiting the Gaudiya Math in Kolkata, where he participated in religious observances and joined devotees in traditional celebrations.

During his visit to the historic monastery, Adhikari engaged actively in the kirtan—a form of congregational chanting and singing central to Bengal's Vaishnavite tradition. The Chief Minister sang devotional hymns alongside the assembled worshippers, demonstrating his participation in the spiritual proceedings.

Adhikari's involvement extended beyond singing, as he also participated in the celebratory dancing that accompanied the kirtan. He played the dholak, a two-headed drum commonly used in devotional music, further immersing himself in the religious festivities.

Radha Ashtami, which commemorates the birth of Radha, a central figure in Hindu devotional practice, holds particular significance in Bengal's rich spiritual and cultural traditions. The Gaudiya Math remains one of the state's prominent centres of worship and theological study, drawing devotees throughout the year.