Lord Krishna, The Playful God

Devaki - sister of demon ruler Kansa- and Vasudevar are parents to lord Krishna. According to Narada's prevision, the eighth son of Devaki will put an end to Kansa's rule. Kansa, after finding out about this prediction, jails them and murders all 7 children soon after their birth. But, Vasudevar takes the support of Gods and takes Krishna to Vrindavan, to his friend's residence. Lord Krishna grows up in Vrindavan with all the cowherds like a normal kid, being cared by Yashoda.

Childhood Accounts

It is believed that Kansa had sent a lot of evil forces to kill Krishna however none of them succeeded in their attempts. Krishna, when he was a child defeated the serpent which tried to kill the inhabitants and animals of Vrindavan through poisoning Yamuna. Krishna jumped from the top of Kadamba tree on to Kaaliya's head and performed dance and defeated him.

Krishna is known to be playful - he plays with milkmaids and steals butter kept in their homes. He would let the cows go free at the time of milking and would also conceals clothes of bathing Gopis. He wanted to let his worshippers become aware about the underlying meaning of his naughty practices. He was hinting that devotees should detach themselves from material pleasures and focus only on him, the ultimate god.

The Relationship Between Krishna and Radha

Radha was his companion in Vrindavan and she was also a milkmaid. The friendship between Radha and Krishna is selfless and represents true love. Their love does not give importance to physical union but gives significance to mental union. Radha is fully devoted to Krishna and thinks that he belongs to her. Radha is even envious of the flute of Krishna. She says the flute is fortunate to feel Krishna's prana in it.

Sudhama and Krishna

When studying in Gurukula, Sudhama was Krishna's closest friend and associate. Their friendship surpassed all social divide and Lord Krishna accepted Sudhama completely.

Sudhama belonged to a poor family and once he thought to see Krishna and heads to Dwaraka. He carries a small pack of rice for Krishna, which is liked by him. Arriving at Dwaraka, Sudhama gets surprised seeing the big army and palace of Lord Krishna. He thinks to head back, but then Krishna sees him and calls him back. Kuchela was treated well by Krishna, in his palace.

Sudhama left for home without asking for help as he was embarrassed to tell Krishna about his poverty. But the god realized his companion's needs and helped him. Kuchela understood the goodness of Lord Krishna after reaching home. He saw that his family was eating good food and was wearing new clothes.

To find out more information about Hindu Gods like Krishna and Rama, visit Prabhubhakti.