Krishna · कृष्ण

Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, is loved as the playful cowherd child of Vrindavan, the flute-playing companion of Radha, and the teacher of the Bhagavad Gita.

Born in Mathura and raised by Yashoda and Nand in Gokul and Vrindavan, Krishna is remembered for stealing butter, lifting Mount Govardhan, dancing the rasa with the gopis and, later, guiding Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. He is pictured dark-hued, with a peacock feather in his crown and a flute in his hands.

Janmashtami celebrates his birth; Holi, Govardhan Puja and many Vrindavan festivals are associated with him. Weekly observances vary by region and tradition.