Ashtasakhi: the eight sakhis of Radha

Lalita, Vishakha, Champakalata, Chitra, Tungavidya, Indulekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi, the eight principal companions of Radha in Braj, with readings and linked sources.

• Lalita - The eldest and foremost of the eight, who consoles Radha in separation and arranges the meeting of the divine couple.
• Vishakha - The second most prominent sakhi, the same age as Radha, who arranges the clothing and ornaments of the divine couple.
• Champakalata - The third most senior sakhi, who gathers fruit and vegetables from the forest and cooks for the divine couple.
• Chitra - Skilled in music on water-filled pots, in astronomy and astrology, in caring for animals and in gardening.
• Tungavidya - A celebrated music teacher, learned in the arts and sciences, who plays the veena and sings.
• Indulekha - Prepares food for the divine couple; some authorities also name dancing among her services.
• Rangadevi - An expert logician, fond of joking with Radha, who burns incense and fans the divine couple.
• Sudevi - Twin sister of Rangadevi, whose seva is offering water to the divine couple.

Readings

• Who are the Ashtasakhi? - An introduction to the eight principal sakhis of Radha: who they are, how they are usually listed, and where to read more.