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Avatars of Vishnu
Krishna
Krishna is the eighth avatar of Vishnu and a central figure in the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita — adored as a divine child, cowherd, philosopher-guide and supreme being.
Importance in Hindu Mythology
Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita on the battlefield of Kurukshetra and is worshipped as the Purna Avatara (complete incarnation) of Vishnu.
Family
ParentsVasudeva and Devaki (foster: Nanda and Yashoda)
SpouseRukmini, Satyabhama (and others)
ChildrenPradyumna and others
Also Known As — Names & Epithets of Krishna
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gopal | Protector of cows |
| Govinda | Lord of cows and senses |
| Murari | Slayer of demon Mura |
| Murlidhar | Holder of the flute |
| Madhava | Husband of Lakshmi |
| Keshava | Slayer of demon Keshi |
| Kanha | Beloved childhood name |
| Giridhari | Lifted Govardhan Mountain When villagers worshipped Indra, Krishna advised worshipping Govardhan Hill. Angry Indra sent torrential rain, and Krishna lifted Govardhan on his little finger for seven days, becoming Giridhari. |
| Damodar | Bound by mother Yashoda |
| Shyam | Dark-complexioned one |
Related Scriptures
Bhagavad GitaBhagavata PuranaMahabharata
Related Festivals
🪔 Janmashtami🪔 Holi🪔 Govardhan Puja
Related Temples
🛕 Dwarkadhish (Dwarka)🛕 Banke Bihari (Vrindavan)🛕 ISKCON temples
Related Baby Names
Divine names inspired by Krishna — tap any linked name for its full meaning, numerology & Rashi.
Similar Mythological Figures
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Krishna called Giridhari?
Because he lifted the Govardhan hill on his little finger to protect the villagers from Indra's rains.