Lord Krishna

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God of Compassion, Tenderness, and Love

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| label12 = Affiliation | data12 = Avatar of Vishnu, Svayam Bhagavan

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| label16 = Abode | data16 = Vaikuntha, Vrindavan, Goloka

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| label18 = Mantra | data18 = Om Krishnaya Namah

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Krishna is a major deity in Hinduism, worshipped as the eighth avatar of the god Vishnu and also as a supreme god in his own right. He is considered a god of compassion, tenderness, and love in Hinduism, and his life and teachings are described in important texts such as the Mahabharata, where he is a key character in the Bhagavad Gita.

Life and Legends

Krishna's life is detailed in texts like the Bhagavata Purana, where his various exploits are described, from his miraculous birth in Mathura, his childhood and youth in Vrindavan to his role as a guide and charioteer to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna is also noted for his playful episodes with the Gopis (milkmaids) of Vrindavan, especially with Radha, who is considered his eternal consort.

Birth

Krishna was born to Devaki and her husband, Vasudeva, in a prison cell where they were held captive by Devaki's brother, Kamsa, due to a prophecy that her eighth son would cause his downfall. Immediately after his birth, Vasudeva carried Krishna across the Yamuna river to Gokul where he was raised by his foster parents, Nanda and Yashoda.

Role in the Mahabharata

During the Kurukshetra War, Krishna served as Arjuna's charioteer and imparted spiritual wisdom to him, which is compiled in the sacred text, the Bhagavad Gita. Here, Krishna explains various philosophical concepts and the paths of devotion, action, and knowledge.

Philosophy and Worship

Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita address the moral and philosophical dilemmas faced by Arjuna and are considered a spiritual guide. Krishna is worshipped in various traditions of Hinduism, and there are numerous sects dedicated to his worship, such as the Gaudiya Vaishnavism founded by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

Festivals

Two major festivals associated with Krishna are Janmashtami, which celebrates his birth, and Holi, celebrated in part to commemorate the divine love of Radha for Krishna.

Influence

Krishna's influence extends beyond Hinduism to other religions like Buddhism, Jainism, and Bahá'í Faith, where he is considered a wise man or a saint. His stories are also important in various cultural performances like Bhagavata Mela, Yakshagana, and Rasa Lila.

See also

• List of Hindu deities
• Radha Krishna
• Krishna in popular culture