Sri Radhika Stava — Benefits & How to Chant
श्री राधिका स्तव
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Sri Radhika Stava
A direct, heartfelt appeal for the mercy (karuna) of Srimati Radharani, the queen of Vrindavan
Glorifies Radha as the most beloved of Krishna and the worshipful centre of the gopis
Short and exquisitely sweet, making it ideal for daily prayer and easy memorisation
Cultivates Radha-bhakti and the loving mood (bhava) of the Vraja gopis
Composed by Srila Rupa Goswami, the foremost of the Six Goswamis, lending it deep spiritual authority
Sung daily in the temples of Braj (Vrindavan, Barsana) and cherished by Gaudiya Vaishnavas
Its closing plea 'karunam kuru mayi' trains the heart in humble dependence on Radha's grace
How to Chant Sri Radhika Stava
Instructions
Sit before an image of Sri Radha or Radha-Krishna and sing the refrain 'radhe jaya jaya madhava-dayite' followed by the three verses, dwelling on each description of Radha. It is traditionally sung in a sweet melody, the refrain repeated after each verse. Conclude by praying humbly with the words 'karunam kuru mayi' for Radha's compassion. May be recited once or sung repeatedly in kirtan.
Spiritual Significance
Devotees of Braj hold that this short prayer of Rupa Goswami carries his own pure longing, and that those who sing 'karunam kuru mayi karuna-bharite' with a sincere heart draw the compassionate glance of Srimati Radharani, by whose mercy alone the door to Krishna's loving service is opened.
Origin & History
Source: Stavamala of Srila Rupa Goswami
Author: Srila Rupa Goswami
Srila Rupa Goswami, the chief of the Six Goswamis of Vrindavan whom Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu personally empowered to reveal the science of devotion, composed numerous prayers gathered in his Stavamala. Among the most beloved is this Sri Radhika Stava, 'Radhe jaya jaya Madhava-dayite'. In a tender refrain and three verses he hails Radharani as the darling of Krishna, the worshipful queen of the gopis and of the forest of Vrindavan, the crescent moon of King Vrishabhanu's house, and the dear companion of Lalita and Vishakha — and then, humbly, simply begs: 'O most compassionate one, be merciful to me.' It has remained a cherished daily prayer for Radha's grace throughout Braj.