Yogastami: A Day of Deep Spiritual Significance
Tomorrow (Wednesday, in India), we celebrate Radha Ashtami, also known as Durga Ashtami or Yogastami. Radha Ashtami is a sacred Hindu festival that marks the divine birth of Radha Rani, who is revered as an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Radha, embodying pure love and devotion, is celebrated for her deep, unwavering connection to Lord Krishna, symbolizing selfless dedication. This auspicious day falls on the eighth day of the Bhadrapada month, four days after Ganesh Chaturthi.
In parallel, this day is also observed as Durga Ashtami, which holds great importance in the monthly lunar cycle. On the eighth day of every month, devotees honour Goddess Durga with special rituals and pujas, offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and lighting lamps (diyas) to invoke her blessings.
The Unique Significance of Yogastami
The Ashtami of the Bhadrapada month, in particular, is known as Yogastami, a day of profound spiritual potency. This day holds special significance for devotees of Shree Shankar Maharaj, especially in the Pune-Satara region. Yogastami is also highlighted in the teachings of Shree Shaligram Swami, who emphasized its importance for spiritual aspirants.
According to him, on Yogastami, all Yogic powers (Yogshakti) manifest at the Lotus Feet of Bhagavan Nityananda. For those who seek to embark on or deepen their spiritual journey, this is an ideal time to take the darshan of Bhagavan Nityananda. Devotees who can, should visit Ganeshpuri to offer their prayers at the Samadhi of Bhagavan Nityananda. For others, simply visiting a nearby temple or sitting at their home altar, engaging in meditation (dhyana), reading scriptures, chanting, and contemplation will invoke His divine blessings.
On this sacred day, Bhagavan Nityananda offers His grace to guide seekers on their spiritual path and help them succeed. It is highly recommended that seekers seek His blessings on Yogastami.
This year, Yogastami falls on September 11th, 2024.
May Bhagavan’s blessings be upon all of us.
