We have had a great summer full of spiritual festivities here at Radhadesh. August was a very busy month this year, with the main spiritual festivals nestled closely next to our main open day – the Summer Festival.

There were a lot of things to organize; and with the College students and staff away for their summer break, there were a lot less people around to help out. Still, with the good sunny weather, and a nice team spirit, many things were arranged, and the festivals attracted a lot of visitors.

We hope everyone had a good time, and that the occasional hiccups were over-shadowed by the wonderful atmosphere. If you’d like to see photos from these festivals, please click here.

Summer Festival, 25–26 July

Over the weekend of the Summer Festival we had 1500 guests visiting the temple.

The highlight of the summer festival this year was undoubtedly the children’s Ratha Yatra parade. This was the first such event at the Summer Festival and was coordinated by Krsangi Lila Dasi and Anne Patris. The children helped to make flower garlands, lead the kirtan songs, and decorate and pull the carts. It was a very sweet occasion, and even some of the adults were allowed to take part!

Another highlight was the presence of two very special guests, Mahavisnu Swami and Kadamba Kanana Swami, who helped to create a sweet atmosphere by leading wonderfully melodious kirtans.

Janmashtami and Vyasa-puja weekend, 14–16 August

The Janmashtami festival weekend was incredibly busy, with 3 major festivals in 3 days.

The main festival for our visitors was on the Sunday, and attracted nearly 2500 pilgrims from all over the Benelux.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to open the temple for darshan of the altar before 12.30. This year we had many visitors arriving early – with several buses coming before 11:00 to avoid the large queues. Next year we will try to make sure that things will start earlier.

That said, the responses of the visitors were very positive, with the wonderful warm summer weather making for a great day out.

During the festival visitors could offer a lamp to the temple’s Radha-Krishna deities, visit the Museum of Sacred Arts and the Krishna Vision Exhibition, swing the temple’s small Radha-Krishna deities, and have a go at mantra meditation. Everyone also received a copy of the Janmashtami Magazine, which was presented especially for the occasion.

There was also a nice cultural stage program with artists performing traditional dances, bhajans, and plays.

Radhastami, 27 August

This was the celebration of the appearance day of Srimati Radharani, the greatest of all Lord Krishna’s devotees. Many people attended this all-day festival.

The highlights included:

An enchanting boat ride for the temple’s small Deities. This was held on the front lawn in a specially made pool. A nice touch this year, thanks to our ever-creative festival organizer, Rick Haverbus, was a fountain of flowing water.

Darshan of Radharani’s lotus feet. At the last arati the temple’s Deities were dressed in such a way that everyone could see Their beautiful feet. This is a once-a-year opportunity for the deity of Srimati Radharani, and was much appreciated by all present.

Many thanks to all those who helped during the festivals and to all our guests for their wonderful association!

See you next year!