krishna

Krishna is a major figure in Hinduism, revered across traditions as an avatar of the god Vishnu; in some sects he is regarded as the supreme form of God (Svayam Bhagavan). The Sanskrit name Kṛṣṇa means “dark” or “all-attracting.” Krishna is especially central to Vaishnavism and to many bhakti traditions in India.

According to myth, Krishna was born in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva and imprisoned by his uncle Kamsa. He was raised in Gokul and Vrindavan by foster parents Nanda and Yashoda. As a child and youth he is said to have performed miracles and defeated several demons, such as Putana and Kaliya, and he befriended and danced with the gopis, including Radha. Eventually he departed Vrindavan for Mathura and killed Kamsa, affirming dharma in his childhood and adolescence.

In the Mahabharata, Krishna acts as Arjuna’s friend, charioteer, and counselor. His discourse to Arjuna on the battlefield, compiled as the Bhagavad Gita, addresses dharma, yoga, action, and devotion. He guides, but does not fight as one of the Pandavas’ combatants, choosing instead to shape the war’s ethics and outcomes.

Iconography commonly shows Krishna with blue skin, wearing yellow garments and a peacock-feathered crown, often playing a flute. He is depicted in multiple forms—child Krishna, youthful Krishna with Radha, and regal Krishna. His stories inhabit major Hindu scriptures such as the Bhagavata Purana and the Mahabharata, and they underpin many temples, dances, and devotional music.

Festivals include Janmashtami, which marks his birth, and Holi, linked to his playful acts with the gopis. Global movements such as ISKCON promote Krishna devotion and education, distributing literature, food, and cultural programs.