Biography of Lord Krishna: Birth, Vasudeva-Devaki, the story of Kansa and arrival in Gokul

Lord Krishna is one of the most revered deities in Sanatan Dharma. He is considered the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Lord Krishna's entire life is a wonderful example of the protection of righteousness, the destruction of unrighteousness, love, devotion, compassion, ethics, and Karma Yoga. He is not just a deity, but also an ideal son, friend, guru, politician, warrior, and great philosopher.

His life is filled with many divine pastimes (leelas). From the mischievous childhood leelas to the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita given to Arjuna in the Mahabharata war, every event gives a new direction to human life.

In the first part of this article, we will learn the detailed story of Lord Krishna's birth, Kansa's atrocities, the imprisonment of Vasudeva-Devaki, Krishna's divine incarnation, and his arrival in Gokul.

Introduction to Lord Krishna

As soon as the name of Lord Krishna is mentioned, the sweet melody of a flute, a crown adorned with a peacock feather, yellow garments, a herd of cows, and the beautiful scenery of Vrindavan come to mind. Krishna's personality is very multifaceted. He is the mischievous Kanha in childhood, the symbol of love and devotion in youth, an ideal king in Dwarka, and Yogeshwar and Jagadguru in Kurukshetra.

Every action of his was for the welfare of the world. He taught human society that one should not abandon the path of truth, righteousness, and duty, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Growing Unrighteousness on Earth

In the final phase of the Dwapara Yuga, atrocities, injustice, and unrighteousness had increased on Earth. Many wicked kings were misusing their power. Innocent people were being oppressed, and those who followed righteousness were living in fear.

Mother Earth, taking the form of a cow, went with the gods to Lord Brahma and expressed her suffering. Brahmaji, along with all the gods, went to the Ksheer Sagar (Ocean of Milk) and prayed to Lord Vishnu to incarnate on Earth and destroy unrighteousness.

Lord Vishnu assured them that he would soon be born in the Yadu dynasty and reduce the burden of the Earth. He also ordered the gods to be born in various forms in the Yadu dynasty and Braj region to assist in his divine pastimes.

Kansa, the Tyrannical King of Mathura

Mathura city was ruled by King Ugrasena, but his son Kansa was extremely cruel and arrogant. He deceitfully removed his father from the throne and seized the kingdom for himself. The entire Mathura lived in fear of his atrocities.

Kansa was very powerful and had befriended many wicked kings and demons. He was so proud of his strength and valor that he considered himself invincible.

Marriage of Devaki and Vasudeva

Devaki, the daughter of King Devaka of the Yaduvanshi dynasty of Mathura, was married to Vasudeva, a great and righteous king of the Yadu dynasty. The wedding ceremony was very grand. Due to his affection for his dear sister Devaki, Kansa himself was driving the chariot to bid her farewell.

At that very moment, a divine voice was heard—

"O Kansa! The Devaki whom you are bidding farewell with great love, her eighth son will be the cause of your death."

Upon hearing this divine voice, Kansa's face turned red with anger. He immediately drew his sword and attempted to kill his sister Devaki.

Vasudeva's Wisdom

When Kansa was about to kill Devaki, Vasudeva explained to him with great patience and wisdom. He said that there was no threat to Kansa from Devaki, but if the prophecy was true, then her eighth son would be the danger for him.

Vasudeva also promised that every child born to Devaki would be handed over to Kansa immediately upon birth. Hearing this, Kansa did not kill Devaki then, but imprisoned both of them.

Life in Prison

Vasudeva and Devaki spent years in prison, living a difficult life. Despite being bound by thick iron chains, both never lost their faith in God.

When Devaki's first child was born, Vasudeva kept his promise and handed the child over to Kansa. Initially, Kansa let the child go, but later Narada Muni told him that Lord Vishnu could incarnate in the form of any child. Hearing this, Kansa became even more fearful.

The Killing of Devaki's Six Children

Blinded by fear and arrogance, Kansa mercilessly killed Devaki's first six children. Each time, the parents' hearts were filled with sorrow, but they remained patient, considering it the will of God.

Religious texts describe that these six children were cursed in their previous births for specific reasons and were born from Devaki's womb according to God's plan.

The Mystery of the Seventh Pregnancy

When the seventh child came into Devaki's womb, Lord Vishnu's Yogamaya performed a divine pastime. She transferred the fetus from Devaki to the womb of Vasudeva's second wife, Rohini.

This child later became famous as Balarama. People thought that Devaki had a miscarriage, whereas in reality, it was part of God's divine plan.

The Divine Incarnation of Lord Krishna

On the sacred night of the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, during the Rohini Nakshatra, at midnight, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Krishna from Devaki's womb. At that time, a divine light spread all around.

The Lord first appeared before his parents in his four-armed form, holding a conch, discus, mace, and lotus. Devaki and Vasudeva praised him and prayed that he take the form of an ordinary child so that Kansa would not know of his incarnation.

The Lord smiled, accepted their prayer, and took the form of a beautiful newborn infant.

The Miraculous Journey Across the Yamuna

With the birth of Krishna, all the gates of the prison opened automatically. The soldiers fell into a deep sleep, and Vasudeva's shackles broke. This was all the effect of the Lord's Yogamaya.

Vasudeva placed the infant Krishna in a basket and set off towards Gokul amidst torrential rain. The Yamuna River was in spate, but as soon as he entered the river, the water level began to recede.

It is said that Sheshnag protected Krishna and Vasudeva from the rain with his vast hoods. This scene is considered a symbol of the Lord's divine glory.

Krishna's Arrival in Gokul

That very night, in Gokul, Mother Yashoda, the wife of Nanda Baba, gave birth to a daughter. Due to the effect of Yogamaya, she was in a deep sleep after delivery.

Vasudeva placed Krishna beside Yashoda and returned to Mathura with the infant girl. Upon reaching the prison, all the gates closed again, and the shackles were bound as before.

When Kansa received the news of the eighth child's birth, he immediately went to the prison. He attempted to kill the infant girl as well, but she escaped from his hands, appeared in the sky, and said—

"O Kansa! The one who will kill you has been born. He has reached a safe place."

Hearing this, Kansa was filled with fear and anger. He ordered the killing of all newborn male children in the entire kingdom, but Lord Krishna was safe in Gokul, and from there began his divine childhood pastimes.

Biography of Lord Krishna: Childhood Pastimes, Putana Vadh, Kaliya Daman, Govardhan Dharan and Raslila

Lord Krishna's childhood is not just a collection of entertaining stories, but each pastime holds a deep spiritual message. His childhood spent in Gokul and Vrindavan is a wonderful example of love, devotion, compassion, courage, and the protection of righteousness.

The mischievous Kanha, who grew up in the lap of Mother Yashoda, killed many demons in his childhood. Sometimes he is seen stealing butter with his cowherd friends, and sometimes he dances on the hoods of Kaliya Naga, giving the world the message that victory of righteousness and truth is certain.

In this part, we will describe in detail the major childhood pastimes of Lord Krishna, which are narrated in the Shrimad Bhagavata Mahapurana and other Vaishnava texts.

Nandotsav and Celebration in Gokul

After Lord Krishna's arrival in Gokul, an atmosphere of joy filled Nanda Baba's house. Congratulations echoed throughout Braj. Nanda Baba gave donations to the Brahmins, performed cow donation, and distributed sweets throughout the village.

Even today, Nandotsav, celebrated the day after Janmashtami, is observed in memory of this event. Devotees celebrate Lord Krishna's birth festival by placing him in a swing.

Mother Yashoda and Kanha's Maternal Love

Mother Yashoda loved Krishna immensely. She did not know that the child she was raising was himself an avatar of Lord Vishnu. To her, Krishna was just her beloved son.

Krishna also captivated the hearts of Mother Yashoda and all the residents of Braj with his childhood pastimes. His smile, sweet voice, and mischievous nature brought joy to everyone.

Putana Vadh

When Kansa learned that his destroyer had been born, he sent many demons to Gokul. The first to arrive was the demoness Putana. She took the form of a beautiful woman, reached Nanda Baba's house, and took the infant Krishna in her lap.

Putana had applied deadly poison to her breasts. Her intention was to kill Krishna by making him drink the poison. But the Lord, along with the milk, also took her life.

Putana fell to the ground in her true, giant demonic form. The residents of Braj were terrified, but Krishna was playing on her body, smiling.

Spiritual Message of Putana Vadh

• God always protects his true devotees.
• Even an impure touch with a wicked intention can grant liberation from God.
• Arrogance and deceit are destined to end.

Shaktasur Vadh

Once, infant Krishna was lying in his cradle. Nearby, a heavy bullock cart (shakat) stood, in which a demon named Shaktasur was hidden.

Child Krishna, playing, touched the cart with his small foot. Instantly, the entire cart broke and shattered, and Shaktasur met his end.

The residents of Braj were astonished to witness this event.

Trinavarta Vadh

Kansa sent a demon named Trinavarta, who took the form of a fierce whirlwind. He tried to lift the infant Krishna and take him into the sky.

Within moments, Lord Krishna's body became so heavy that Trinavarta could not hold him. Krishna grabbed his throat, and he fell down and died.

With this event, the entire Gokul began to become aware of the Lord's divine power.

The Pastime of Eating Mud and the Virat Swarup

One day, the cowherd boys complained to Mother Yashoda that Krishna had eaten mud. Mother Yashoda asked him to open his mouth.

When Krishna opened his mouth, Mother Yashoda saw the entire universe, planets, stars, mountains, oceans, gods, and even herself within it.

For a moment, she experienced her son's divine form, but the Lord's Yogamaya immediately returned her to maternal affection.

The Divine Pastime of Butter Theft

Krishna was very fond of butter. He, along with his friends, would go to the houses of the Gopis, take butter from the pots, eat it, and feed it to the monkeys as well.

The Gopis repeatedly complained to Mother Yashoda, but whenever they saw Krishna's smile, all their anger would vanish.

Spiritual Meaning of Butter Theft

According to Vaishnava Acharyas, butter symbolizes a pure heart. Lord Krishna "steals" the pure and loving hearts of his devotees. Therefore, this pastime is considered a symbol of devotion and love.

Damodara Lila (Tying with a Rope)

One day, angry about the butter theft, Mother Yashoda tied Krishna with a rope to a mortar (okhal).

Lord Krishna, dragging the mortar, passed between two huge Arjuna trees. Both trees fell, and from them appeared two divine beings named Nalakuvara and Manigriva.

They bowed to the Lord and explained that they were sons of Kubera, who had been cursed by Narada Muni to become trees. They attained liberation through Krishna's touch.

Vatsasur, Bakasur, and Aghasur Vadh

As Krishna grew older, Kansa continuously sent new demons.

• Vatsasur came in the form of a calf, but Krishna recognized and killed him.
• Bakasur came in the form of a giant heron, who tried to swallow Krishna. The Lord tore open his beak.
• Aghasur took the form of a python and wanted to swallow the cowherd boys. Krishna also ended him.

All these pastimes clearly show that God is always ready to protect his devotees.

Subjugation of Kaliya Naga

A poisonous serpent named Kaliya Naga lived in the Yamuna River. Due to his poison, the river water had become polluted, and many animals and birds were dying.

One day, Krishna jumped into the Yamuna and began to dance wonderfully on the hoods of Kaliya Naga. Upon feeling the touch of the Lord's feet, Kaliya Naga's arrogance vanished.

His wives prayed to the Lord. Krishna forgave Kaliya and ordered him to return to the ocean.

Message of Kaliya Daman

• Arrogance is destined to end.
• God grants both punishment and compassion.
• Protection of nature and water sources is essential.

Lifting of Govardhan Hill

The residents of Braj used to worship Lord Indra every year. Krishna explained to them that the basis of rain was not just Indra, but also nature and Govardhan Hill. Therefore, he urged them to worship Govardhan.

Indra became angry and started a torrential downpour. A crisis arose in the entire Braj.

Then Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger and protected all the residents of Braj, cows, and animals for seven days.

Finally, Indra's pride was broken. He apologized to Krishna and bestowed upon him the title of Govinda.

Message of Govardhan Lila

• Protecting nature is our duty.
• Renouncing ego is true devotion.
• God never abandons his devotees.

The Sweet Melody of the Flute

Krishna's flute was not just a musical instrument, but a symbol of divine love and the call of the soul. Hearing the melody of his flute, cows, birds, trees, the Yamuna River, and the entire Braj were filled with joy.

In the Vaishnava tradition, the flute is considered a symbol of the sweet relationship between the soul and the Supreme Being.

Spiritual Significance of Raslila

On the night of Sharad Purnima, Lord Krishna performed the Maha Ras with the Gopis in Vrindavan. This pastime is not worldly love, but a symbol of the divine union of the individual soul and the Supreme Being.

Each Gopi felt that the Lord was with her alone. This is a wonderful example of the Lord's Yogamaya and omnipresence.

Message of Raslila

• God holds equal love for all devotees.
• There is no place for ego in true devotion.
• The ultimate goal of the soul is union with the Supreme Being.

Biography of Lord Krishna: Arrival in Mathura, Kansa Vadh, Guru Sandipani, Sudama, Dwarka and Role in Mahabharata

The third phase of Lord Krishna's life is an inspiring journey from his childhood to youth, and then to becoming an ideal king and a great strategist. After the sweet pastimes of Vrindavan, the time had come for him to fulfill his true purpose—the destruction of unrighteousness and the establishment of righteousness.

The end of Kansa in Mathura, education in the guru's ashram, selfless friendship like that with Sudama, the establishment of Dwarka city, and the protection of dharma in the Mahabharata—all these events make Lord Krishna's divine personality even greater.

Arrival of Akrura in Vrindavan

When Kansa could not harm Krishna even after sending many demons, he devised a new plan. He sent his trusted minister and devotee of Lord Krishna, Akrura, to Vrindavan.

Kansa made an excuse that a bow sacrifice and wrestling tournament had been organized in Mathura. He urged Nanda Baba that Krishna and Balarama must attend this festival.

Akrura knew that Krishna was no ordinary child, but God himself. When he reached Vrindavan, he had an intense longing to see the Lord. Krishna and Balarama welcomed him with great affection.

Farewell from Vrindavan

When the residents of Braj learned that Krishna was going to Mathura, the entire Vrindavan was plunged into sorrow. The Gopis, cowherd boys, Nanda Baba, and Mother Yashoda all had tearful eyes.

The Gopis pleaded with Krishna not to leave Vrindavan. But the Lord knew that he had to go to Mathura to establish righteousness.

This farewell was not just a change of location, but the beginning of a new chapter in Krishna's life.

Entry into Mathura

Upon reaching Mathura, Krishna won the hearts of the city dwellers. On the way, he saw a hunchbacked woman, Kubja, who was carrying sandalwood for Kansa.

Kubja lovingly offered sandalwood to the Lord. Krishna blessed her and, with his mere touch, made her body straight and beautiful.

The message of this pastime is that God looks not at outward appearance, but at the love and devotion of the devotee.

Bow Sacrifice and Kuvalayapida Elephant

To kill Krishna, Kansa stationed the huge and fierce elephant Kuvalayapida at the entrance of the palace.

As soon as Krishna and Balarama arrived, the elephant attacked them. Krishna caught its tusks and defeated it.

After this, he also easily broke the huge divine bow kept at the bow sacrifice. Seeing this, the people of Mathura were astonished by his strength.

Chanuura and Mushtika Vadh

In the wrestling arena, Kansa sent his strongest wrestlers, Chanuura and Mushtika, to fight Krishna and Balarama.

The battle was fierce, but ultimately Krishna killed Chanuura, and Balarama killed Mushtika. After this, other wrestlers also fled the battlefield.

Kansa Vadh

When Kansa saw that all his warriors were dead, he prepared to fight himself.

Krishna reached the stage with the speed of lightning, knocked off Kansa's crown, and dragged him to the battlefield. Within moments, he killed Kansa.

With Kansa's death, the people of Mathura were freed from years of tyranny. This was a historic victory of righteousness over unrighteousness.

Liberation of Parents

After killing Kansa, Lord Krishna immediately went to the prison and freed his parents, Devaki and Vasudeva.

He reinstated his maternal grandfather, King Ugrasena, as the king of Mathura and never sat on the throne himself.

This event is a prime example of Krishna's humble nature and devotion to dharma.

Education in the Ashram of Guru Sandipani

Although the Lord was omniscient, he studied at the ashram of Maharishi Sandipani in Ujjain to teach humanity the importance of education.

He studied Vedas, Vedangas, Dhanurveda, politics, music, scriptures, warfare, and many other disciplines. It is said that he attained complete mastery in 64 arts in just 64 days.

Ideal of Guru Dakshina

Upon completion of his education, Krishna and Balarama asked Guru Sandipani for Guru Dakshina.

The Guru expressed his wish to bring back his son who had died in the ocean.

Lord Krishna went to the ocean, Shankhasura, and finally to the abode of Yama, and brought the Guru's son back alive, handing him over to his Guru.

This event shows that devotion and respect towards the Guru is the highest ideal in Indian culture.

Friendship of Krishna and Sudama

In the Gurukul, Krishna's friendship was with Sudama. Both studied together, served, and obeyed the Guru's commands.

Years later, when Sudama became extremely poor, he went to Dwarka at his wife's insistence. He only had a handful of flattened rice as an offering.

Krishna welcomed his friend in such a way that the entire palace was moved. He himself washed Sudama's feet and lovingly accepted the flattened rice he had brought.

When Sudama returned home, he found that his hut had been transformed into a magnificent palace.

This story is considered the best example of true friendship, love, and selfless devotion.

Invasions of Jarasandha

After Kansa's death, his father-in-law Jarasandha became extremely enraged. He attacked Mathura several times with a huge army.

Lord Krishna protected Mathura each time with his strategy and valor.

However, the repeated wars began to cause suffering to the populace. Therefore, the Lord made a far-sighted decision.

Establishment of Dwarka City

Lord Krishna built a grand and secure city in the middle of the ocean, which was named Dwarka.

Vishwakarma constructed this divine city. It had magnificent palaces, beautiful gardens, wide roads, and prosperous markets.

Dwarka was not just a capital, but a symbol of ideal governance, justice, security, and prosperity.

This is why Lord Krishna is called Dwarkadhish.

Rukmini Haran and Marriage

Princess Rukmini of Vidarbha had accepted Lord Krishna as her husband. But her brother Rukmi wanted to marry her to Shishupala.

Rukmini sent a secret message to Krishna. The Lord arrived at the wedding venue, abducted Rukmini, and solemnized their marriage.

This event is considered a symbol of the victory of righteousness, love, and truth.

Narakaasura Vadh

A demon named Narakaasura had imprisoned thousands of princesses. Lord Krishna killed him and freed all the women.

Naraka Chaturdashi, celebrated the day before Diwali, is believed to be associated with this event.

Krishna's Role in the Mahabharata

The Mahabharata war was not just a struggle for kingdom, but a decisive war between righteousness and unrighteousness.

When both the Kauravas and Pandavas approached Krishna for help, the Lord said that on one side would be his vast Narayani army, and on the other, he himself, but without weapons.

Duryodhana chose the army, while Arjuna chose Lord Krishna. This decision became the basis for the outcome of the Mahabharata.

Yogeshwar Becomes Arjuna's Charioteer

In the Kurukshetra war, Lord Krishna agreed to be the charioteer for Arjuna's chariot. This is the highest example of humility and service.

Before the war began, when Arjuna was disturbed seeing his own relatives on the battlefield, Lord Krishna imparted to him the immortal knowledge of life, which we now know as Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.

This teaching freed Arjuna from delusion and inspired him to fight for the protection of dharma.

Biography of Lord Krishna: Essence of Bhagavad Gita, Krishna's Teachings, Major Names, Temples and Importance in Modern Life

The final phase of Lord Krishna's life is not limited to the Mahabharata war. He gave invaluable knowledge to all of humanity, which remains as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. Shrimad Bhagavad Gita is not just a religious text, but a divine guide to the art of living, leadership, self-knowledge, action, devotion, and liberation.

Even today, scholars, saints, philosophers, managers, and spiritual seekers worldwide draw inspiration from Krishna's teachings. His thoughts provide success, balance, and peace in every sphere of life.

The Teaching of the Bhagavad Gita in Kurukshetra

Before the Mahabharata war began, when Arjuna saw his gurus, grandfathers, brothers, and relatives on the battlefield, he was overcome with delusion and sorrow. He laid down his Gandiva bow and refused to fight.

Then Lord Krishna imparted divine knowledge of the soul, action, dharma, yoga, devotion, and liberation to Arjuna. This teaching became famous as Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, which has 18 chapters and 700 verses.

"Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya Glanirbhavati Bharata.
Abhyutthanamadharmasya Tadatmanam Srijamyaham॥"

Meaning— Whenever there is a decline of righteousness and a rise of unrighteousness, O descendant of Bharata, at that time I manifest myself.

Brief Essence of the 18 Chapters of the Bhagavad Gita

Lord Krishna's Major Teachings

1. Action is the Basis of Life

Lord Krishna's most famous message is that humans should perform their duty without being attached to the fruits of their actions.

"Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma phaleshu kadachana."

This teaching is as relevant today as it was then, because success is based on honest effort.

2. The Soul is Immortal

According to the Gita, the body is perishable, but the soul is never destroyed. Death is merely a change of body.

3. Adherence to Dharma is Paramount

Whatever the circumstances, humans should not abandon truth and righteousness.

4. Renounce Ego

Ego is the biggest cause of a person's downfall. Humility is true greatness.

5. Devotion and Surrender

Whoever remembers God with a sincere heart, God himself protects them.

Famous Verses of Lord Krishna

Sarvadharmanparityajya

Sarvadharmanparityajya Mamakam Sharanam Vraja.
Aham Tva Sarvapaapebhyo Mokshayishyami Ma Shuchah॥

The Lord says, abandoning all other duties, take refuge in Me alone. I shall liberate you from all sins; do not fear.

20 Major Names of Lord Krishna and Their Meanings

Major Krishna Temples in India

• Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura
• Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
• Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
• ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan
• Dwarkadhish Temple, Gujarat
• Jagannath Temple, Puri
• Nathdwara Shrinathji Temple, Rajasthan
• Udupi Krishna Temple, Karnataka
• Guruvayoor Krishna Temple, Kerala
• Panduranga Vitthal Temple, Pandharpur

Importance of Krishna's Teachings in Modern Life

Today's life is full of stress, competition, and imbalance. In such times, Lord Krishna's teachings inspire us to live with mental peace, make right decisions, and lead a positive life.

• Maintain patience during stressful times.
• Never shy away from your duty.
• Remain balanced in both success and failure.
• Strengthen relationships with love and compassion.
• Adopt the path of truth and righteousness.
• Respect nature and all beings.

Major Festivals Associated with Lord Krishna

• Shri Krishna Janmashtami
• Radhashtami
• Govardhan Puja
• Gopashtami
• Holi (Lathmar Holi of Braj)
• Jhulan Utsav
• Sharad Purnima Maha Ras
• Gita Jayanti

Inspirational Quotes of Lord Krishna

"Man becomes great by his thoughts."

"What has happened is good, what is happening is good, and what will happen will also be good."
Note: This is a popular quote, but it is not a literal verse from the Bhagavad Gita.

"True yoga is that which connects man to himself and to the Supreme Being."

Inspiration from Lord Krishna's Life

Lord Krishna's life teaches us that difficult circumstances can never block our path to success. If a person has courage, patience, wisdom, and faith in God, they can face any challenge.

He teaches us to love, but not to be attached; to act, but not to be arrogant about the results; to lead, but not selfishly. This is why Krishna's life will remain relevant in every era.

Conclusion

Lord Krishna is not just a historical or religious figure, but a guide for all of humanity. He was born to establish righteousness, his life conveys the message of love and compassion, and his Bhagavad Gita still shows the right path of life to millions.

If we adopt Krishna's teachings in our lives, our personal, family, and social lives can become more balanced, successful, and happy.

॥ Shri Krishnarpanamastu ॥
॥ Radhe Krishna ॥