Several weeks ago I began reading the Bhagavad Gita. I am pausing periodically to meditate upon the ideas therein. I am also doing other reading on my own. I am meditating on the love between Krshna and Radha. And I want to pray to Durga ma. Unfortunately, I do not read nor understand sanscrit. Are there such things as reliable English translations of mantras and prayers to Durga and Radha? As of now, I'm not even to the level of novice, but flailing around a sea of internet "information" looking for a place to start. I would be grateful for any experienced advice.
not sure if you're still around after such a long time. This forum seems to be 'hidden by obscurity'. Wonder why no one replied to you that all hinduism-related talks are in Hinduism and Discuss Hinduism forums:
Vaishnavas, at least Gaudiya Vaishnavas, consider Radha the origin of Durga. Therefore one doesn't have to pray to Durga separately. And she is in charge of fulfilling material desires which Vaishnavas try to get rid of.
The main mantra related to Radha is Hare Krishna mahamantra, which addresses Radha and Krishna. It has no English translation, just several commentaries explaining its meaning. E.g.:
"Duality is bondage before moksa and wisdom after realization. The duality accepted for the purpose of bhakti is sweeter than even non-duality." (from mangalacarana to Advaitasiddhi sara sangraha by Madhusudana Sarasvati, former advaitin)