IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 26. ZARASANDHA (JARASANDHA)

 

Zarasandha (Jarasandha) was a powerful king in Hindu mythology, known from the Mahabharata. His father, King Brihadratha of Magadha, had two wives but no children. One day, a sage named Chandakaushika gave the king a fruit as a blessing. The king split it and gave half to each wife. Both wives became pregnant, but each gave birth to only half of a human baby. The two halves were lifeless and frightening, so the king had them thrown into the forest.

A demoness (asuri) named Jara found the two halves. She picked up one piece in each hand, and when she brought her hands together, the halves magically joined into a living baby. The baby cried loudly. Jara, the demoness, moved by this, took the child to the king and told him what had happened. The king was very happy and named the child "Jarasandha," meaning “joined by Jara.”

Zarasandha (Jarasandha) grew up to become a strong king of Magadha. He had two daughters who married Kamsa, Krishna’s evil uncle. When Krishna killed Kamsa, Zarasandha (Jarasandha) became angry and attacked Krishna many times. Though Zarasandha (Jarasandha) had help from other powerful kings, he lost every time.

Later, Krishna asked Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, to fight Zarasandha (Jarasandha). With Krishna’s help, Bhima defeated and killed him, ending Zarasandha’s (Jarasandha’s) rule. This also freed many kings that Zarasandha (Jarasandha) had captured.

Zarasandha (Jarasandha) ruled during the Brihadratha dynasty, which lasted 2,600 years before other dynasties took over. He is also mentioned in the Vayu Purana.

 

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 25. YAMUNA

 

In Hindu stories, Yamuna is closely connected to Lord Krishna in many ways. She is known as Kalindi or Yami and is one of Krishna’s eight main wives, called the Ashtabharya. The Yamuna River also plays an important role in Krishna’s life from the very beginning.

When Krishna was born, his father, Vasudeva, had to carry him across the Yamuna River to save him from the evil king Kamsa. The river, which was flooding, became calm and allowed Vasudeva to pass safely. It is said that the river goddess Yamuna touched baby Krishna's feet, which made her waters pure and peaceful. This was the first time Yamuna saw Krishna; later in life, she married him.

Krishna also spent much of his childhood in Vrindavan, a village along the banks of the Yamuna. There, he played his flute and enjoyed happy times with his beloved Radha and the other gopis (cowherd girls).

Later, when Krishna visited the Pandava brothers at Indraprastha, he went hunting with Arjuna. After bathing in the Yamuna, they met Kalindi, a beautiful girl who was living in a house built by her father, the sun god Surya. She was performing penance, hoping to marry Lord Vishnu. When Krishna, who is an avatar of Vishnu, heard her wish, he agreed to marry her. Kalindi then traveled with Krishna to his kingdom, Dvaraka, where they were married. Together, they had many sons.

Through all these stories, the Yamuna symbolizes devotion, purity, and the deep bond between Krishna and his followers.

Here are the main Sanskrit sources from which the stories mentioned about Yamuna (Kalindi) and Krishna:

1. Bhagavata Purana (Śrīmad Bhāgavatam) - (Skandha) 10, Chapters 45 and 82

      Tām upāgamatāhūtāṃ kalindiṃ vāsudevaḥ svayam (Bhāgavata Purāṇa 10.45.48)

Story of Krishna and Kalindi: In Chapter 45, Krishna and Arjuna meet Kalindi on the banks of Yamuna while hunting. Kalindi expresses her desire to marry Vishnu. Krishna marries her after returning to Indraprastha and later takes her to Dvaraka.

Birth story and crossing of Yamuna: In Chapter 3 of Skandha 10, Vasudeva carries the newborn Krishna across the Yamuna river, which parts for him after Vasudeva prays.

2. Vishnu Purana (Viṣṇu Purāṇa) - Book 5, Chapter 6 -

Tato jalād varārohāṃ kalindīṃ kṛṣṇa īkṣitum | āgamya prārthayāmāsa..

Mentions Kalindi as one of Krishna’s wives, and describes how Krishna meets her, understands her devotion, and marries her.  Also talks about the sons born to Krishna and Kalindi.

3. Mahabharata (Mahābhārata) - Sabhā Parva (Book of the Assembly Hall), Section 14

Kalindiṃ nāma kālindīṃ sūryasya tanayām śubhām,  (Mahābhārata, Sabhā Parva 14.19)

When Krishna visits the Pandavas at Indraprastha, the meeting with Kalindi by the Yamuna river is described.

4. Harivamsa (Harivaṃśa Purāṇa) - Vishnu Parva, Chapters 87-88

A detailed elaboration on Krishna’s marriage to Kalindi.  Harivamsa is often considered a supplement to the Mahabharata, containing detailed stories of Krishna’s life.

  

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 24. XHEERAM (KSHEERAM=MILK)

 

In Hindu cosmology, "Ksheeram in the company of Krishna" is a symbolic idea, not a direct concept. It reflects teachings from the Śrī Brahma-saṁhitā, where milk (Kshiram or ksheeram) and its transformation into curd are used to explain the relationship between Krishna and Śiva. Just as curd is a transformation of milk and not something separate, Śiva is a special manifestation of Krishna’s energy, mainly for destruction. Śiva is not an independent god but a transformed form, with Krishna remaining the source (ādi-puruṣa).

Krishna is also famously connected to milk and milk products like butter. In many stories, especially in Vaishnava tradition, Krishna’s love for butter and cream represents innocence, divine playfulness, and his close bond with cows, which are sacred. His stealing of butter ("Navanita Chor") is seen as a loving interaction with his devotees. Krishna values simple offerings, showing that devotion and purity of heart are more important than grand rituals. Offering milk or butter to Krishna, with love, brings spiritual benefit.

In essence, the phrase captures two deep ideas: Krishna as the ultimate source of all manifestations, and his loving, playful connection with milk, cows, and his devotees.

Here's a list of the main Sanskrit sources that support the points:

1. Śrī Brahma-saṁhitā 5.45

क्षीरं यथा दधि विकारविशेषयोगात् सञ्जायते न हि ततोऽपि च हेतुरेकः ।

यं शम्भुतामपि तातः समुपैति कार्यात् गोविन्दमादिपुरुषं तमहं भजामि ॥

"Just as milk is transformed into yogurt by contact with a fermenting agent, but remains essentially one substance, so Śrī Govinda, although the original person, assumes the form of Śiva for the work of destruction."

This verse directly uses the milk-curd analogy to describe the relationship between Krishna and Śiva:

2. पत्रं पुष्पं फलं तोयं यो मे भक्त्या प्रयच्छति । तदहं भक्त्युपहृतमश्नामि प्रयतात्मनः ॥

         -  Bhagavad-gītā 9.26

"If one offers Me with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or water, I will accept it."

(Emphasis on simple, loving offerings.)

This verse speaks about Krishna accepting simple offerings like milk and butter if they are offered with love:

3. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 10.9.20:   Describes Krishna as the butter thief (Makhan Chor), stealing butter from the homes of the gopīs.

दध्नः पात्राण्यवापूर्य स्नेहस्निग्धमुखीर्जनम् । यत्र क्वापि न्यवीष्ट तन्न्यस्तं अन्वैषत ॥

And Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 10.13–10.14: Describes Krishna’s deep relationship with cows,

milk, and his pastoral, playful life in Vrindavana.

 4. Gopāla-tāpanī Upaniṣad

This text describes Krishna as the supreme deity (Parabrahman) and closely links him with the life of cowherds (gopas), cows, and milk.  Krishna is described as the "Supreme Cowherd Boy" (Gopāla), lovingly tending cows and enjoying milk and butter.

 

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 23. WIVES OF KRISHNA

 

The Marriages of Krishna

Rukmini

Rukmini, princess of Vidarbha, loved Krishna. Her brother Rukmi wanted her to marry Sisupala, but she sent a message to Krishna. He came on her wedding day, took her away in his chariot, and later defeated Rukmi. They had a son named Pradyumna.

Jambavati

Krishna also married Jambavati after defeating her father, Jambavan, in a battle over the Syamantaka gem.

Satyabhama

Satyabhama became his wife when her father Satrajit gave her to Krishna in return for the gem.

Kalindi

Kalindi, a river goddess, wished to marry only Krishna. He met her with Arjuna and accepted her.

Mitravinda

Mitravinda chose Krishna at her svayamvara, and he carried her away.

Satya

Krishna won Satya by taming seven strong bulls, a challenge set by her father.

Kaikeyi (Bhadra)

Kaikeyi (Bhadra), Krishna’s cousin, also became his wife.

Lakshmana

Krishna married Lakshmana, another princess who chose him as her husband during her svayamvara.

He later defeated the demon Narakasura and rescued 16,000 women. To protect their honour, he married all of them and built a palace for each.

In total, Krishna had 16,008 wives—his eight chief queens (Rukmini, Jambavati, Satyabhama, Kalindi, Mitravinda, Satya, Bhadra, and Lakshmana) and the 16,000 rescued women.

Here's a list of short sources from Sanskrit literature, especially Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, Harivamsa, and other Puranas, where the stories of Krishna's marriages are found:

1. Rukmini

• Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Bhagavatam), Canto 10, Chapters 52–54
• Harivamsa Parva, Vishnu Parva, Chapter 85 onwards

2. Jambavati

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 56
• Story of Syamantaka gem; fight with Jambavan

3. Satyabhama

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 56–57
• Given to Krishna by her father Satrajit after returning the Syamantaka gem

4. Kalindi

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 58
• Found near Yamuna by Krishna and Arjuna

5. Mitravinda

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 58
• Krishna carries her away from svayamvara

6. Satya (Nagnajiti)

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 58
• Krishna tames seven bulls to marry her

7. Bhadra (Kaikeyi)

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 58
• Daughter of Srutakirti, Krishna’s paternal aunt

8. Lakshmana (or Lakshana)

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 58
• Chose Krishna in her svayamvara

9. 16,000 Women from Narakasura’s Palace

• Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 59
• Vishnu Purana, Book 5, Chapter 29
• Krishna defeats Narakasura and marries the rescued women

 

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 22. VIDURA

 

Vidura and Krishna shared a deep and meaningful relationship based on love, respect, and devotion. Krishna saw Vidura as a wise and honest person who always followed the path of truth and justice. He considered Vidura not just a good man, but a true devotee. Vidura, in return, respected Krishna deeply and saw him as divine.

One of the most touching moments in their relationship was when Krishna visited Hastinapura. Instead of staying in the grand palace of Duryodhana, Krishna chose to stay at Vidura’s simple home. This showed how much Krishna valued truth and goodness over wealth and comfort. Vidura and his wife welcomed Krishna with great love and care, offering him simple food with pure devotion.

Krishna also trusted Vidura’s thoughts and often spoke to him about the problems between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Vidura’s advice came from wisdom and a clear understanding of right and wrong.

Their bond teaches us that true friendship and devotion are more valuable than power or riches. Krishna’s visit to Vidura’s home reminds us that God chooses hearts filled with love, not homes filled with gold. Their story is a shining example of righteousness, wisdom, and spiritual connection.

            Here are the primary sources from Sanskrit literature that mention and describe the relationship between Vidura and Krishna:

1. Mahabharata (महाभारतम्) Author: Sage Vyasa (Vedavyasa)
Key Sections:

• Udyoga Parva (Book of Effort) – Chapters 83–88
  Krishna visits Hastinapura as a peace envoy of the Pandavas. During this time, he chooses to stay at Vidura’s house instead of Duryodhana’s palace, demonstrating his preference for righteousness over luxury.
• Vidura Niti (a section within Udyoga Parva)
  This contains Vidura’s advice on dharma, ethics, and governance. It reflects the wisdom Krishna valued so deeply in him.

Reference example (Sanskrit):

"नाहं तस्मिन्निवत्स्यामि यत्राधर्मो निवर्तते। विविक्तं शरणं यास्ये विदुरं धर्मदर्शनम्।"
(Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva 88.3)
"I will not stay where adharma (unrighteousness) prevails. I will seek shelter in the home of Vidura, who is a knower of dharma."

2. Bhagavata Purana (भागवतपुराणम्) Canto 3, Chapter 1–4
            These chapters describe Vidura’s character, his departure from Hastinapura, and his spiritual journey. While less focused on Krishna’s visit, it shows Vidura’s deep devotion to the Lord and his quest for spiritual truth.

3. Harivamsa (हरिवंशः)

            An appendix to the Mahabharata, the Harivamsa expands on Krishna’s life. Though references to Vidura are brief, they support his image as a righteous man respected by Krishna.

 

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 21. UDDHAVA

 

After finishing their education at Sage Sandipani's ashram, Rama and Krishna returned to Mathura. They began to miss their loved ones in Ambadi, especially the cowherds who had raised Krishna. So Krishna sent his trusted friend and minister, Uddhava, to deliver a message and learn how everyone was doing.

Uddhava stayed in Ambadi for a few months. The people—Yasoda, Nandagopa, and the Gopas—were overjoyed to hear news about Krishna. They sent gifts and their love back to him through Uddhava, who returned to Mathura with the presents.

Uddhava was a wise Yadava and a disciple of Brihaspati. He played key roles in several events, including attending Draupadi’s wedding and saving Dvaraka during King Salva’s attack.

Later, Krishna warned Uddhava that the Yadava dynasty would soon come to an end. Saddened, Uddhava asked to join Krishna in Vaikuntha. Krishna instead shared deep spiritual truths, teaching Uddhava that the world is an illusion and explaining the path to liberation.

Before Dvaraka was destroyed, Uddhava left the city peacefully. He later went to the hermitage at Badarika, where he devoted himself to meditation and spiritual practice.

Here are the primary sources from Sanskrit literature that mention Uddhava and the events summarized in the story, along with the specific sections where they appear:

 1. ŚrīmadBhāgavatam-

     * Skandha-10,Canto-10, Chapters- 46–47: -This is the main source for the story of Uddhava, especially his relationship with Krishna, his visit to Ambadi (Vrindavan), and his spiritual teachings.

• Uddhava is sent by Krishna to Gokula (Ambadi) with a message for the Gopas and Gopis.
• His interactions with Yasoda, Nanda, and especially the Gopis are described in detail.
• The emotional outpouring of love and longing from the Gopis is central to these chapters.
• Skandha 11 (Canto 11), Chapters 6–29
• Known as the Uddhava Gita, these chapters contain Krishna's final teachings to Uddhava.
• Uddhava asks 21 spiritual questions, and Krishna teaches about Maya (illusion), Moksha (liberation), and Bhakti (devotion).
• Krishna instructs Uddhava to go to Badarikashrama.

 2. Mahabharata: Uddhava is mentioned in several Parvas (books) of the Mahabharata,                            though less extensively than in the Bhagavata Purana.

• Adi Parva (Book 1)
• Chapter 186, Verse 18: Mentions Uddhava at Draupadi's Swayamvara.
• Chapter 218, Verse 11: Uddhava is present at a celebration in Raivata mountain.
• Chapter 220, Verse 30: He brings Subhadra's dowry to Indraprastha when she marries Arjuna.
• Vana Parva (Book 3), Chapter 15, Verse 9
• Uddhava defends Dvaraka from King Shalva's attack.
• Mausala Parva (Book 16), Chapter 3
• Describes the destruction of the Yadava dynasty.
• Uddhava leaves Dvaraka before its fall, filled with divine knowledge.

3. Vishnu Purana and Harivamsa Purana

• These Puranas also recount Krishna’s life, including Uddhava’s role, though with less detail than the Bhagavata Purana.

 

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IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA - 20. TRUNAVARTA

 

Trinavarta was a demon sent by King Kamsa to kill baby Krishna. Kamsa was afraid because it was predicted that Krishna would one day defeat him. Trinavarta had magical powers and took the form of a strong whirlwind to carry out the task.

At that time, Krishna was growing up in a village called Ambadi. One day, his foster mother, Yashoda, was feeding him when she suddenly felt Krishna becoming very heavy. The weight became so great that she could hardly move. She somehow placed Krishna on a mat and stepped outside.

While she was away, Trinavarta came in the form of a whirlwind and took Krishna high into the sky. But something strange happened—Krishna became heavier and heavier. Trinavarta couldn’t carry him anymore. Krishna then grabbed tightly onto the demon’s neck and chest, making it hard for him to breathe. Unable to escape, Trinavarta crashed to the ground and died.

This story shows Krishna’s divine power, even as a baby. It also teaches that no matter how strong evil may seem, good will always win in the end.

The story of Trinavarta and infant Krishna appears in the Bhagavata Purana (Śrīmad Bhāgavatam), which is one of the major texts of Sanskrit literature dedicated to the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. Below are the key sources and references:

Primary Source:

Śrīmad Bhāgavatam (Bhagavata Purana), Canto 10 (Daśama Skandha) Chapter 7: "The Killing of the Demon Tṛṇāvarta"

तं दृष्ट्वा तत्र न दृश्यं गोप्यः सन्दिग्धचेतसः। सन्दिदृक्षवो गोकुलं समन्तात् परितोऽन्विषन्॥​

taṁ dṛṣṭvā tatra na dṛśyaṁ gopyaḥ sandigdha-cetasaḥ
sandidṛkṣavo gokulaṁ samantāt parito 'nviṣan​

नन्दादयोऽन्ये च गोपा यशोदावचनातुरा:। कृष्णं न दृष्ट्वा चक्रु: स्वं शोकं संस्तम्भितेन्द्रियाः॥​

nandādayo 'nye ca gopā yaśodā-vacana-āturāḥ
kṛṣṇaṁ na dṛṣṭvā cakruḥ svaṁ śokaṁ saṁstambhitendriyāḥ​

तं दृष्ट्वा पतितं भूमौ मृतं गोपाः समागताः। कृष्णं च तस्योपर्युपविष्टं तं विस्मिता अपि॥​

taṁ dṛṣṭvā patitaṁ bhūmau mṛtaṁ gopāḥ samāgatāḥ
kṛṣṇaṁ ca tasyopary upaviṣṭaṁ taṁ vismitā api​

उत्थाप्याङ्के निधायैनं गोपा गोप्यश्च विस्मिताः। कृष्णं परं विस्मयन्तः स्वगृहान् प्रत्यपायन॥​

utthāpya aṅke nidhāyainaṁ gopā gopyaś ca vismitāḥ
kṛṣṇaṁ paraṁ vismayantaḥ sva-gṛhān pratyapāyana​

     These verses depict the episode where the demon Tṛṇāvarta, taking the form of a whirlwind, abducts baby Krishna. However, Krishna increases His weight, forcing Tṛṇāvarta to crash to the ground and die, with Krishna unharmed and sitting atop the demon's chest.

Additional Mentions:

The story is retold or referenced in other devotional texts such as: Hari-vamsa (a supplement to the Mahabharata), Vishnu Purana (similar account of Krishna’s childhood)

 

 

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