Lord Krishna is one of the most beloved deities in Hindu culture. He is renowned for his divine playfulness, wisdom, and a key role in the Mahabharata. However, behind this inspiring incarnation, there is a great sacrifice of his father, Vasudeva. The father of Lord Krishna, Vasudeva, was not just a biological parent but also represents sacrifice, devotion, and courage. His life was full of struggles and immense hardships, yet he played a vital role in deciding Krishna’s destiny and ensuring the survival of righteousness, that is, Dharma.
Who Is the Father of Lord Krishna?
Vasudeva, a famous Yadava prince, was the father of Lord Krishna and the husband of Devaki. He was an honest & wise leader, who is a devotee of God, known for his unmatched commitment to truth and dharma. He was born in the Yadav dynasty and was a direct successor of the great King Yadu.
Vasudev married the princess Devaki, sister of the cruel King Kansa, who was the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna. A divine announcement had warned Kansa that Devaki’s eighth child would be the cause of his death. This sets the plot for Vasudeva’s future life, full of immense sacrifices and struggles.
The Sacrifice of Vasudeva
As soon as Kansa came to know about this danger, he imprisoned both Vasudeva and Devaki. He takes an oath to kill each child they give birth to stay safe from death. Despite their old age, Devaki & Vasudeva remained strong and patient and kept trust in divine prediction.
How Vasudeva Protected Baby Krishna?
On the night of Krishna’s miraculous birth, the following surprising and unbelievable event occurs:
- Chains Broke Open: The strong iron chains that bound Vasudeva magically fell off, and the prison doors opened.
- Guards Fell Asleep: As Krishna was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, so due to his divine energy, Kansa’s guards fell into a deep sleep.
- The Yamuna River Parted: As Vasudeva carried the newborn Krishna in a basket, the river Yamuna first rose its level to touch the feet of Lord Krishna and then moved backwards to make a way for Vasudev to pass safely.
- Sheshnag’s Protection: The mighty serpent, Sheshnag, stretched his hood over Krishna to protect him from the heavy rain. He moves behind Vasudev to take care of newborn Krishna.
Knowing all these risks, Vasudeva dared to take Krishna to village Gokul, where he exchanged Krishna with Nand Baba & Yashoda’s newborn daughter. He then returned to the prison with the baby girl, aware of the fact that Kansa would harm her. As expected, Kansa tried to kill the baby girl, but she transformed into Goddess Durga and warned him that Krishna was born and already in safe hands elsewhere.
Who Is Father of Lord Krishna in the Divine Sense?
While Vasudeva is considered the biological father of Shri Krishna, it is also believed that Krishna, being an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, has no birth or death. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna himself declares that he is beyond birth and death. However, in human form, Vasudeva completes the role of Krishna’s father with utmost love and commitment.
The Later Life of Vasudeva
After Krishna grew up and defeated the evil soldiers and other tricks of the cruel King Kansa, Vasudeva and Devaki were freed from prison. They live with their son and witness his divine role in restoring dharma. It is believed that Vasudeva later lived under Krishna’s protection and guidance, witnessing many historical events, including the great Mahabharat war.
Major Lessons from Vasudeva’s Life
The life of Vasudeva, the father of Lord Krishna teaches us lots of important lessons:
- Faith and Devotion: Despite a lot of struggles Vasudeva never lost faith in God & dharma.
- Bravery and Sacrifice: He risked his life along with his wife multiple times to save Krishna, showcasing the true spirit of a parent’s love and playing our role on the path of Dharma.
- Righteousness: Despite facing injustice Vasudeva remained righteous and patient.
Conclusion: Answer of Father of Lord Krishna
The father of Lord Krishna, Vasudeva was not just a father but an epitome of supreme sacrifice and duty. His selfless love ensured the birth and safety of Krishna, who later became the protector of dharma. The story of the father of Shri Krishna is an inspiration to the power of faith, dedication, and unconditional love. Even today, his life continues to motivate devotees, reminding them that truthfulness, devotion and dharma always lead to victory in the end.
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