Exploits of Lord Krishna
First Online: June 27, 2001
Last Updated: August 27, 2024
While Lord Krishna is widely worshipped among Hindus as an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the cause for his popularity is his intensely human form as described in the Hindu epics. His exploits (collectively called "Krishna Leela") are a popular theme for Indian artists over centuries. Krishna is often depicted as an overgrown, naughty child stealing butter, as a cowherd protecting cows, as a mischievous adolescent who stole women's clothes, and a slayer of demons. He is also the supreme diplomat, and especially the preacher of the sacred verse, Bhagavad-Gita at a time of war.
The Story of Krishna
Shri Krishna, revered as a divine figure in Hinduism, was born
in Mathura during the month of Shravana. Born to Devaki and
Vasudeva in a prison, he was raised by his foster parents, Nanda and
Yashoda, in the town of Gokul, where the villagers affectionately called him
"Kanha" due to his dark complexion. His early life was marked by miraculous
feats and the protection of his people from numerous dangers, such as the
tyrannical Kamsa, whom he ultimately defeated in Mathura at the age of ten.
Krishna later relocated to Dwarka, where he rebuilt the city after its
destruction, and played a crucial role in the lives of the Pandavas, guiding
them through the trials of the Kurukshetra War and imparting the timeless
teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna.
Krishna was worshipped by many names across different regions—Kanhaiya in
Mathura, Jagannath in Odisha, Vitthal in Maharashtra, and Dwarkadhish in
Gujarat, among others. His wisdom and divine foresight made him a revered
figure, known not only for his miraculous deeds but also for his deep
understanding of dharma and human nature. Despite facing numerous challenges,
Krishna led a life of patience, intelligence, and profound spirituality,
ultimately leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire millions. His
life, teachings, and the city of Dwaraka, which he saw submerge before his
death, remain enduring symbols of faith, resilience, and the pursuit of
righteousness.
Depiction of Krishna in Indian Art
- The Clothes Thief
- Far Reach of Long Hands!
- Gopika Vastrapaharan
- Gopika-Vastraharan
- Killing of Pootani
- Krishna and Radha Enjoy Nature
- Krishna breaking pots of curds
- Krishna Climbs a Tree after Stealing Women's Clothes
- Krishna in a Rajasthani Painting
- Krishna Kills the Evil Crane
- Krishna Licking Butter off his foot
- Krishna Lifts a Mountain to Shelter Cows and Women
- Krishna Milks a Cow
- Krishna Milking a Cow
- Krishna Playing a Flute
- Krishna the Clothes Thief
- Krishna the Butter Lover
- Krishna the Mischief Monger
- Krishna's Wartime Counsel
- Lord Krishna as an Envoy
- Naked Women asking Krishna for their Clothes
- Sandipani Guru Teaching Krishna and Sudama
- Lord Krsihna goes on Picnic!
- Taming of the Evil Serpent
- Vasudev Crossing Yamuna River with Newborn Krishna
- Vasudeva Gives Away Boy Krishna to Yashoda
- Waking up of Kumbhakarna
- Yashoda with Infant Krishna
See Also:
- Lord Vishnu and His Avatars
- Ramachandra -- the perfect man and a perfect king
