Why everyone in Vrindavan says "Radhe Radhe"

Step out of your car in Vrindavan and you will hear it at once. The e-rickshaw driver says it. The shopkeeper says it. So does the priest. "Radhe Radhe!" It means hello, thank you and goodbye, all in one.

What it means

"Radhe Radhe" is simply calling out Radha's name. In temples you may also hear "Jai Shri Radhe", which means "glory to Radha".

Why Radha first?

In Braj, Radha is lovingly called Radha Rani, the queen of Vrindavan. Her village, Barsana, is just a short drive away.

Devotees believe Krishna is happiest when his beloved Radha is remembered. So people here greet each other with her name first. Many say it is the easiest way to please Krishna.

You will see it everywhere

"Radhe Radhe" is painted on house walls, written on tree trunks and printed on the clothes of priests and devotees. After a day or two, you will find yourself saying it too.

How to use it

• Greet anyone with folded hands and a "Radhe Radhe". You will get a smile back.
• Say it to thank a shopkeeper or your e-rickshaw driver.
• Use it to say goodbye.

It is a small greeting, but it tells you a lot about Vrindavan. Here, love comes first, and strangers greet you like family.