The Death of Lord Krishna: A Karma and Poison Mystery

One of the most intriguing stories from the Indian epic The Mahabharata revolves around the death of Lord Krishna. This tale not only delves into the concept of Karma but also introduces an enigmatic element of poison. In this article, we explore the circumstances leading to the death of Lord Krishna, the role of Karma, and the mysterious Payasam that played a role in his demise.

The Final Years of Krishna

According to the narrative in The Mahabharata, a tragic event unfolded at a festival among the Yadavas. A violent altercation ensued, resulting in the mutual destruction of the Yadava tribe. This was a poignant moment in their history, as brothers turned against each other.

In a poignant twist of fate, a hunter named Jara shot an arrow at Lord Krishna, mistaking him for a deer. Despite this unfortunate occurrence, Lord Krishna forgave Jara, acutely aware of the consequences of his actions. This act of magnanimity highlights his divine benevolence and wisdom.

The Debate on Krishna's Age at Death

While some traditional accounts pinpoint Krishna's age at death as 125, recent research suggests a more plausible age of 88. This discrepancy raises interesting questions about the accuracy of oral history and the possibility of historical embellishment over time. The debate on Krishna's age adds an additional layer of mystery to the story, challenging our understanding of the events surrounding his final days.

Reaping the Price of Past Actions

According to a Karma-based interpretation, in a previous birth, Lord Rama had killed Vaali, the brother of Sugreeva, from behind without a fair fight. This act of betrayal and deceit is said to have been the cause of Lord Krishna's death. It is suggested that Lord Krishna's actions as Jara, who shoots him, are the repercussion of Rama's past actions. This narrative beautifully encapsulates the principle of Karma, where every action has its repercussions, even for the divine.

The Beginning of Kali Yuga

With the death of Lord Krishna, a new era, known as Kali Yuga, began. This transition marks a significant shift in the cosmic order and reflects the residue of teachings and practices that Krishna had established during his lifetime. The story of his death symbolizes the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in human history.

The Secret Behind Krishna's Death - The Mysterious Poison

According to a legend by Aman Roy, the bow used to shoot the arrow was indeed toxic, but its name is not recorded in any known texts. Roy’s version introduces a fascinating twist: the Payasam, a liquid food made from milk, sugar, and rice, could have neutralized the poison. The problem, however, was that Lord Krishna did not apply Payasam to his feet, as he was resting them on the ground.

The wise sage Durvasa, who observed the scene, pointed out this oversight, revealing the fatal flaw in Krishna's defense strategy. He prophesied that Krishna's death would occur at his feet, as he had neglected to apply the Payasam there. This adds a surreal and almost poetic dimension to the story, highlighting the importance of even the smallest actions.

Conclusion

The death of Lord Krishna remains one of the most enigmatic and debated events in Indian mythology. From the role of Karma and the poisoning of the bow to the protective properties of Payasam, this story continues to captivate the imagination. Whether you believe in the literal interpretation or see it as a profound allegory, the narrative of Krishna's final moments remains a timeless and thought-provoking tale.