Radhe Radhe — Radha Krishna Dhun
राधे राधे — राधा कृष्ण धुन
Also known as: radhe radhe · radhe govind · radhe shyam · radha krishna dhun · radhe radhe bhajan
Origin & Story
Traditional Braj dhun and greeting (Radha-Krishna naam-kirtan) · Traditional · Traditional, rooted in the bhakti movement of Braj
In the land of Braj, where Radha and Krishna played, their names are inseparable. 'Radhe Radhe' became at once a chant, a greeting and a way of life — pilgrims hail one another with it on the streets of Vrindavan and Barsana. The dhun expresses madhurya bhakti, the sweet devotion in which the soul, like Radha, longs only for union with the beloved Lord.
✦ As told in scripture
Devotees of Braj say that the name of Radha unlocks the heart of Krishna himself — that he is more pleased by 'Radhe' than by his own name. Pilgrims describe how the constant 'Radhe Radhe' in Vrindavan's lanes seems to dissolve worry and wrap the whole town in an atmosphere of joy and love.
The Mantra
Tap any line — or the ▶ button — to hear it recited
राधे राधे राधे राधे, राधे गोविन्द राधे। राधे राधे राधे राधे, राधे श्याम राधे॥
Radhe Radhe Radhe Radhe, Radhe Govinda Radhe Radhe Radhe Radhe Radhe, Radhe Shyam Radhe
Meaning:Radhe Radhe… Radhe Govinda… Radhe Shyam — the names of Radha and Krishna sung together as one.
Word-by-Word Meaning
Click any word to hear its pronunciation
Benefits of Chanting Radhe Radhe — Radha Krishna Dhun
The signature chant of Braj — Vrindavan, Barsana and Mathura — where 'Radhe Radhe' is even the everyday greeting
Names Radha before Krishna, in keeping with the tradition that her grace leads the devotee to the Lord
An effortless dhun — endless repetition of two names, sung with love
Kindles madhurya bhakti, the sweet, loving devotion of the Radha-Krishna tradition
Can be sung in joyful group kirtan or whispered softly as personal japa
How to Chant Radhe Radhe — Radha Krishna Dhun
Sing it as a flowing dhun, repeating the names with growing feeling, clapping or with simple instruments. There are no rules — let the heart lead. Alone, repeat 'Radhe Radhe' softly as japa, resting the mind on the loving union of Radha and Krishna.
Frequently Asked Questions
You May Also Like
ॐ
Explore more sacred mantras with complete meaning and chanting guides