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Radha refers to either one of two figures in Hindu religion and mythology. By far the most important is Radha the gopi, who participates in the Rasa Lila with Krishna.
Radha (right) with Krishna -Krishna-Balarama Mandir, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh The Consort of Krishna
In the story of Krishna, as told in the Mahabharata, she is one of the gopis, (cow-herding women, or cow-girls), of Vrindavana, and was brought up in this community with Krishna.
There are a number of accounts of her parentage. According to one of the common ones, her father is the cowherd Vrishabanu, and her mother Kamalavati. However, in other accounts Vrishabanu is described as a king.
According to some stories, she is married to the cowherd Ayana (who may also be called Ayana Ghosh, or Abhimanyu).
Many Hindus consider her to be an incarnation of Lakshmi.
Symbolism
The love Radha has for Krishna is seen by Vaishnavas as the most perfect kind of love because it is endless and without conditions. In the modern devotional or bhakti traditions of Hinduism that focus on Krishna, Radha the gopi is his consort (Rather than Krishna's many wives). For some of the adherents of these traditions, her importance begins to approach that of Krishna. She is described as his heart and soul, and as his shakti (his strength or potency). There are some sects notably ISKCON who believe that she is the only way to approach Krishna.
Festivals
Radha's birthday is celebrated as Radhastami.
Other Names
Radharani, Radhe, 1000 Names of Radha (http://www.krishna.com/newsite/main.php?id=254)
Foster mother of Karna
Another Radha is also found in the Mahabharata. She is the wife of the cart driver Adiratha, who found the abandoned newborn boy Karna. Adiratha and Radha became his foster parents. Hence, Karna is sometimes called Radheya (son of Radha).
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