The Tantric Rādhā: Some Controversies about the Nature of Rādhā in Bengali Vaishnavism and the Rādhā Tantra
Keywords:
Rādhā Tantra, Bengali Vaishnavism, Tantric traditions, Śākta-Vaiṣṇava synthesis, June McDaniel, Krishna, Rādhā theology, SahajiyāAbstract
The article "The Tantric Rādhā: Some Controversies about the Nature of Rādhā in Bengali Vaishnavism and the Rādhā Tantra" by June McDaniel explores diverse interpretations of the goddess Rādhā within Bengali Vaishnava traditions, especially focusing on her controversial tantric portrayals in the Rādhā Tantra. The article examines how Rādhā is not only seen as Krishna’s consort but also as a powerful tantric goddess, blending Śākta and Vaiṣṇava theology. Through theological analysis and narrative study, McDaniel reveals how Rādhā is portrayed as a cosmic force of spiritual energy and bliss, central to ritual and salvation.