Krishna is one of the most important characters in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Here are some of the roles played by Krishna in the epic:
- Friend and Advisor: Krishna was a close friend and advisor to the Pandavas. He provided them with guidance and support throughout the epic, helping them in their struggles against the Kauravas. Krishna’s counsel was instrumental in the Pandavas’ success in the Kurukshetra war.
- Diplomat: Krishna was a skilled diplomat who tried to prevent the war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. He attempted to negotiate a peaceful settlement between the two sides but was ultimately unsuccessful.
- Teacher: Krishna is also known for his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, which is a part of the Mahabharata. He delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, where he teaches him about dharma, karma, and the nature of the self. The Bhagavad Gita is considered one of the most influential texts in Indian philosophy.
- Protector: Krishna is seen as a protector of righteousness and virtue in the Mahabharata. He intervenes in various instances to protect the Pandavas and other righteous characters from harm.
- Divine Incarnation: Krishna is considered an avatar of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism. As such, his role in the Mahabharata is seen as a manifestation of the divine in human form.
Overall, Krishna’s role in the Mahabharata is multifaceted and essential to the story’s narrative. He is a central figure who plays a pivotal role in shaping the events of the epic.