ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ
“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”
Balarama Avatar is said to be the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu! There are difference of opinions on this 8th Avatar in the Dasavatara list! Few believe it’s Buddha. Poet Jayadeva has considered Buddha to be the 9th Avatara of Lord Vishnu. He mentions the same in his first Ashtapathi in Gita Govindha. If Buddha enters the list, then there is a change in the order. Krishna becomes 8th Avatar and 9th becomes Buddha.
I have little or no knowledge on Buddha or Buddhism. It’s just what I had read in history books on Buddhism and few aspects from King Ashoka’s history. And selecting which avatara to write either Balarama or Buddha was a difficult decision to make and ended up writing on Balarama Avatar. Balarama Avatar was equally tough to collect information on him, as he has been playing a strong supportive role leaving Krishna to take the driver seat! Sometimes, infact against Krishna he had taken decisions which Krishna then altered for good and all those are absolutely ineffable!
Coming to Balarama Avatar, Lord Vishnu decided to descended on Earth to restore Dharma for another time! This time it was not for some single reason unlike Rama Avatar. Lord Krishna has to do many things through out his journey and he needed a strong support like Lakshman in Rama Avatar. This time it was an elder brother Balarama. He is also called Sankarshan because he was moved from one womb to another. With divine intervention he was moved from Devaki’s womb to Rohini’s womb.
He was then born in Ayarpadi. Lord Krishna joined him after his epic birth and an adventurous journey just after his birth! The boys grew together killing demons, stealing butter and safe guarding people. Balarama, originally Rama known for his muscular strength and he is then called Balarama, Balabadhra. He is always identified with his plough. He also had a mace and taught many people like Beema, Duriyodhana, Baka Sura, Keechagan.
As they grew up Krishna became more busier in solving Padavas’ problems, Safe guarding Dwaraka from the attacks of Jarasandha. Balarama didn’t understand most of Krishna’s decisions. He thought he was biased and as Krishna became more ineffable he started to withdraw himself especially during Kurukshetra war!
Of all stories of Balarama this is spoken more! He is still worshiped as God of Farmers. When Farmers want more yield, want healthy crops, no insects issues, success in their new farming techniques farmers worship Balarama before they start off any work! He had drawn the river Yamuna closer to Vrindhavan using his plough. Another time Kauravas had taken siege of Krishna’s son Sambha. Even after polite requests, Kauravas did not budge. Balarama with his mighty plough is said to have pulled the entire city of Hastinapur near River Yamuna and threatened to drown the city in the River. Eventually Kauravas surrendered.
He is still celebrated for his plough! There are few unsung stories on his skills to dig tributaries using plough and help farming in Mathura and Virndhavan.
What’s so special in these abilities when in comes to contemporary aspect?? With growing urbanization, people tend to over look the importance of agriculture. Sometimes unknowingly and sometimes knowingly. In the name of development we want more luxury than what is required for a good living! Many corporates are concentrating more on other wealth, minerals under this abundant Earth failing to see the importance of agriculture. Somehow there is a gap between money and food. People are behind more money. Yes we need money to live on this Earth! But money doesn’t equate food. Money, changes on plate cannot be eaten. We need to know the importance of food and the process. The ultimate goal of earning, having more money is to have food on plate till the last day on this earth.
The plough in Balarama’s hands here is a symbol, showing ‘How Powerful Farming Is’. Realising its difficulty and strength makes us more Powerful! It’s time to see food beyond what we see in the shelves of super market. As people realise the process through which food comes it will be respected more and wastage will be less. Just like how Balarama’s powerful plough pulled an entire city, let it pull people to a better mind set making them realize that sowing money wouldn’t reap food crops directly, throwing money all time cannot bring food on table! Let food be seen beyond the lens of money.
Who is Sri Balarama ?
Lord Balaram. What to say about such a wonderful and attractive personality? His dazzling complexion more white and cooling than crystal, autumn clouds, cascades, full moons and white lotuses; his sparkling eyes full of laughter; his honey-sweet smile; his vibrant blue garments that bring out his fairness so beautifully; his curling dark hair; his broad, powerful chest; his playful, spontaneous gait…
His Identity
He is Krishna’s beloved elder brother and best friend. Together they roam the forests and hills of Vrindavan, herding the cows, playing games, and sharing jokes with their friends in their eternal spiritual abode, which lies far beyond this realm.
Before his appearance in this world, Krishna declared that Balaram would be “the source of all spiritual power, or bala, by which one can attain the highest bliss of life, which is called ramaṇa.” Thus, we pray to Balaram for the spiritual strength to keep us going on our paths, and the spiritual happiness that gives us the determination to stick to it no matter the distractions of this world.
Balaram is always there to help us. He is always ready to give us courage and hope, ever willing to offer the protection of his strong arms and merciful glance.
Srila Prabhupada Stories
There is even a story that a disciple once came to Srila Prabhupada – this was in Vrindavan, back in the early days. He was having a lot of headaches and problems that he just couldn’t figure out how to solve. “What should I do, Srila Prabhupada?” he asked. Prabhupada gave him a disarmingly simple answer. “Go to the temple, go before Balarama, and tell Him all your problems. Ask Him for help.” The devotee did as he was told, he went before the altar of Krishna Balarama and he explained everything, all the difficulties he was facing – he didn’t hold anything back. “My dear Balarama, now I have presented before you all of my troubles. Kindly take charge of them. I surrender unto you,” he prayed. And lo and behold, in the coming days, all his problems vanished one by one.
Srila Prabhupada writes in the second chapter of the Krishna Book, “the spiritual master is the representative of Balarāma, the form of the Supreme Personality of Godhead who supplies spiritual strength. In the Caitanya-caritāmṛta it is confirmed that the spiritual master is the manifestation of the mercy of Kṛṣṇa.” So Balarama is naturally full of compassion and very much willing to help us. He even carries a plough, that symbolises his ability to till our rock-hard, barren hearts, so that they become soft and fertile for the creeper of devotion to grow.
A Deeper Insight
We often hear of him killing demons – Dhenukasura, Pralambasura, Dvivida… these represent anarthas, or unwanted qualities in our hearts, such as lust, greed and anger. Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur writes in his Caitanya Siksamrita, “If a devotee cries out humbly and sincerely to Lord Sri Krsna to remove these demoniac qualities which are represented by the demons killed by Lord Krsna, then Sri Krsna Himself will remove those evils. But the devotees must personally work to drive out the anarthas represented by the demons killed by Lord Balarama. This is a mystery of Vraja-bhajana. The aspirant must personally remove these strong impediments with his best care and efforts and by obtaining the mercy of Krsna. If the devotee’s humility- becomes very deep and intense, Krsna will be merciful. In that case, the feeling of Lord Baladeva will arise in his mind and quickly destroy these demoniac qualities. Then one will gradually improve his cultivation of bhajana.”
To sum up, Lord Balarama is the abode of spiritual bliss, strength, mercy, and guidance, and he is even described as the beauty incarnation of the Lord. What’s not to love?
Balarama in Hindu Mythology
In Hindu mythology, Balarama is an avatar of either a god or a primordial, cosmic being. In the sacred Hindu text Bhagavata Purana, Balarama is introduced as a minor avatar of Lord Vishnu. However, followers of the Gaudiya Vaishnava sect of Hinduism, who worship Lord Vishnu as its one supreme god, consider Balarama, not Krishna, as the eighth major avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Lord Vishnu has manifested numerous minor avatars, but only ten major avatars called the Dasavatara. Among the Dasavatara, nine have already incarnated on Earth, while the tenth has not yet appeared. In the Mahabharata and other Puranas, Balarama is instead described as the avatar of the cosmic multiheaded serpent, who is a primordial being and King of Serpents named Shesha Naag.
Krishna and Balaram
Krishna and Balarama are twin brothers. In the Mahabharata and other Puranas, they were placed, as hairs, in the womb of their mother, Devaki, by Lord Vishnu. Krishna was created from black hair pulled from Lord Vishnu’s own body, and Balarama was created from white hair Vishnu pulled from either the Shesha Naag cosmic serpent or his own body, depending on the mythology.
Symbols and Iconography of Balarama
As a figure who represents considerable strength, Balarama is a popular god in Hinduism who is also strongly associated with farming agriculture. He is commonly depicted in art and other icons holding a plow. He is also frequently portrayed as a loyal companion next to his younger brother, Krishna. Some characteristics that highlight the iconography of Balarama in Hindu mythology include the following:
This illustration shows Balarama using his plow to move a river.
Photo of an illustration of a man plowing a river with several cattle and people in the background.
He is depicted with fair skin
He may be dressed in blue garments
He is decorated with a garland of flowers around his neck
He wears earrings and bracelets
He has two arms
He holds a plow in one hand and a mace in the other hand
His hair is often tied in a top knot
Significance of Balarama Avatar
Balarama is significant as a god of strength and agriculture in Hinduism. He is also known as the adi guru who cultivates bhakti, or love, devotion, and loyalty, in relationships. In the Gaudiya Vaishnavism sect, the Balarama avatar of Vishnu is worshipped as a major deity and teacher who represents truth and knowledge. Lord Balarama’s worshippers recite mantras and give offerings to him in exchange for his strength, guidance, knowledge, and help in cultivating relationships.
The Balarama Jayanthi festival is held in honor of Lord Balarama and is a day that represents his birthday. Balarama is also celebrated during Krishna’s Chariot Festival, the Ratha Yatra. Some temples dedicated to Lord Balarama include the Nenmini Balarama Temple and the Mazhoor Balarama Temple in Kerala, India.
Lesson Summary
Balarama is a Hindu god of agriculture and strength and is also significant as the older twin brother of Krishna. The etymology of the name Balarama is Sanskrit; bala means strength, and Rama is another important Hindu god. Some of Balarama’s other names include Balaram, Bala-Rama, Baladeva, Madhupriya, and Halayudha. Balarama and Krishna are significant as avatars, or incarnations, of the supreme Hindu god, Lord Vishnu. Krishna is typically characterized as a major avatar, while Balarama is a minor avatar of Vishnu. In some Hindu mythologies, Balarama is instead the avatar of the primordial, cosmic King of Serpents, Shesha Naag. The Mahabharata and other Puranas describe Krishna and Balarama as twins that Lord Vishnu placed into Devaki’s womb as hairs. Krishna came from one black hair pulled from Vishnu’s body, while Balarama came from one white hair either pulled from Vishnu’s body or the body of Shesha Naag.
In Hindu iconography, Balarama is portrayed as a strong man with two arms, holding a mace in one hand and a plow in the other. He is fair-skinned and often dressed in blue garments decorated with a garland of flowers around his neck and wears earrings and bracelets. In the sacred Hindu text Mahabharata, Balarama is described as an extremely powerful man and teacher of the fighting arts. He trained Bhima and Duryodhana, who ended up on opposite sides of the Kurukshetra War, which involved two factions called the Kauravas and Pandavas. People pray to Balarama to ask for strength, guidance, and knowledge while also praying for help in cultivating relationships. He is celebrated during the Ratha Yatra, which is Krishna’s Chariot Festival, and in the Balarama Jayanthi festival, which marks his birthday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Balarama the god of?
Balarama is both the god of agriculture and the god of strength in Hinduism. Notably, he is the older brother of another Hindu God, Krishna, who is one of Lord Vishnu’s major avatars.
What is the meaning of the name Balaram?
Balarama’s name comes from the Sanskrit language. The word bala means strength, while Rama is in reference to the Hindu god Rama.
What is the power of Balarama?
Balarama has substantial strength and the ability to train and mentor warriors. He also has the power to cultivate love, devotion, and loyalty in relationships.
WHO IS BALARAMA?
Introduction to Lord Balarama
Lord Balarama
Many schools of thought in Hinduism consider Balarama to be the joint incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his younger brother, Lord Krishna. In Sanskrit, the syllable ‘Bala’ means strength and the syllable ‘Rama’ refers to another incarnation of Lord Vishnu . However, another meaning of the name translates to ‘Rama with a plow.’ Thus, Balarama also came to be regarded as an agricultural deity carrying a plow and symbolizes fertility at the same time.
Being the elder brother of Lord Krishna, who descended to earth to rid the world of evil forces, Balarama came to be associated with strength, obedience, and dint of character. He is also considered the epitome of an ideal brother and a teacher par excellence. Balarama was married to a princess named Revati and displayed the characteristics of a loyal and exemplary husband. Balarama fathered two children with his spouse Revati, who were named Nistha and Ulmuka. He is also sometimes regarded as an incarnation of ‘Adisesha,’ the divine serpent bed of Lord Vishnu in Vaikunta (heaven).
Depiction of Lord Balarama
According to legend, Balarama was born with a fair complexion, while Krishna was born with blue skin or dark complexion. Balarama is sometimes depicted with a plowshare and a pestle in his hands. However, he is also depicted with a plow and a mace in each of his hands. He is also portrayed wearing blue garments and gold jewelry adorning his body. His hair is usually tied in a top knot, and a garland of flowers forms an inseparable part of his physical personality. Balarama is simple and sober with a muscular body and is fiercely loyal to his younger brother, Lord Krishna.
Significance of Lord Balarama
Balarama played a pivotal role during the Mahabharata era. He is credited with teaching Duryodhana and Bheema, the skills and techniques associated with fighting with a mace. Though Krishna favored the Pandavas in the epic, Balarama was conspicuous because of his support to the Kauravas. Balarama even cherished the desire of marrying his sister Subhadra to Duryodhana, but destiny intervened, and she eventually got married to the Pandava, Arjuna. Even when Balarama wanted to marry his daughter to Duryodhana’s son, but fate had other plans, and she got married to Abhimanyu, Arjuna’s son.
When Bheema attacked Duryodhana on the thigh, in contravention of the rules of war, Balarama was upset. However, he was persuaded to accept this transgression by his brother Krishna, who informed him that Duryodhana had committed a grave sin when he commanded Draupadi to sit on his thigh in front of all the elders in the court.
Mythology behind Lord Balarama
The evil tyrant of Mathura, King Kansa, was prophesied to die at the hands of his sister’s eighth child. Acting upon this, he imprisoned his sister Devaki and her husband. As and when a child was born to the couple, he ruthlessly killed all of them. It was then that Lord Vishnu intervened and manifested in Devaki’s womb as Lord Krishna. A part of his essence manifested in Rohini’s womb as Balarama. Eventually, they were united, and both the brothers were raised in a cowherd’s family. As they grew older, the two brothers developed a strong bond and became inseparable. Balarama and Krishna together were fabled for their prowess and strength and are credited with slaying several demons, including the powerful Dhenuka.
Blessings of Worshipping Lord Balarama
Balarama, Krishna and their sister Subhadra are the presiding deities in the famous Puri temple in Odisha. Several other temples dedicated to Balarama also exist in Odisha, including the Baladev Jew temple in Kendrapara District, the Ananta Vasudeva temple in Bhubaneshwar and the Baladev temple in Ganjam District. Worshipping Balarama can bestow you with strength, perfection, fulfillment of desires, wealth, and help overpower enemies.
Events Related to Lord Balarama
Balarama Jayanthi is the birth anniversary of Lord Balarama, and that is observed on different days in different parts of the country. Also calling it variously as Baladeva Chhath, Randhan Chhath, Hal Shashti, etc., a large number of people celebrate the occasion on Shravan Purnima, the Full Moon day of Shravan month (July-August) or on the sacred Akshaya Tritiya day falling in the month of Vaishak (April-May).
The Avatar Of Vishnu: Balarama
Balarama is the avatar of Vishnu, who is the preserver of the universe in Hinduism. He is also known as Baladeva, Balabhadra, and Halayudha. He is the older brother of Krishna and is often depicted holding a plough or a club. His wife is Revati and his sons are Nanda and Upananda.
The names Balarama, Balabhadra, and Halayudha are also used. As a result of Adishesha, the serpent Vishnu is said to be based on, he appears as a manifestation of the serpent. Gautama Buddha is believed to be Vishnu’s ninth incarnation by some Hindus.
In southern tradition, the ninth Avatar of Lord Vishnu is referred to as Balarama, the brother of Lord Krishna. In northern tradition, Buddha replaces Balaram as the Buddha. Puranas claim that Lord Vishnu was born Gautam Buddha in order to mislead those who deny the vedic scriptures.
Is Balarama Avatar Of Vishnu Or Sheshnag?
Is Lakshmana and Balarama the same as all the other gods? Shesh Nag has both avatar types. SheshNag, the younger brother of Rama (Lord Vishnu’s brother), was born during the Treta Yuga ceremony. Krishna’s elder brother Balarama was born in Dwapar Yug as Balarama, the elder brother of Krishna.
The people of Kerala have a sense of self-identity and pride. Folklore and legends from this region are well-known. This story is about sage Parasurama’s recovery of the land from the sea. The Hindu belief system holds that the ancient Parasurama possessed an axe so powerful that it could cleave through mountains and islands. Parasurama pulled off a daring attack by wielding his mighty weapon, allowing the people of Kerala to escape the clutches of the sea. There is a rich and diverse history to the state of Kerala. This is reflected in the numerous cultural icons and monuments that can be found throughout the state. Kerala State is one of the most notable tourist attractions, as is the Thiruvalla Palace, while Kerala Varma Temple and the Kerala Chalet are also notable. Kerala has a fantastic climate and a plethora of natural wonders to enjoy, making it an ideal place to live. Furthermore, it is well connected to other parts of India, making it an ideal location to live and work. Kerala is known for being warm and welcoming, and its citizens are always willing to lend a hand to those in need.
Is Balarama Or Buddha Avatar Of Vishnu?
There is much debate about whether or not Balarama or Buddha are avatars of Vishnu. Some believe that Balarama is an avatar of Vishnu, while others believe that Buddha is an avatar of Vishnu. There is no clear answer, and it is ultimately up to each individual to decide which they believe.
Buddhism spread to other lands and was a part of the world for more than a millennium. In the fourth and fifth centuries AD, a decline in the Gupta empire began. This is due in part to the opposition of Meemaamsakas and Taarkikas to Buddhism. The transmigration of the soul, as well as the law of karma (that our actions have consequences), are two major tenets of Buddha’s teachings. There are several types of Vishnu, but the Dasavatar, or ten-vedic incarnations, are perhaps the most well-known.
The information provided is a guide, not a comprehensive one. For example, the Rigveda contains many other references to Vishnu that are not found in other texts.
The stories of Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, and Balarama can be found in the Vedas, one of the four ancient Indian texts.
The stories of Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, and Rama are all linked to the creation of the world.
Kurma is a story about how the gods created immortality by churning the ocean in search of its nectar.
According to Varaha’s story, Vasuki, the serpent, was slaughtered.
Naranasi is said to have killed the demon Hiranyakashipu in the Mahabharata.
Vishnu is the incarnation of a dwarf who saved the world from flood in the story of Vamana.
To restore order in the world, Vishnu’s incarnation is said to have returned to the earth.
Rama’s epic story revolves around the incarnation of Vishnu, who saved Sita from Ravana’s demon.
Krishna’s story is about the incarnation of Vishnu as a child to teach the dharma.
The enlightenment of Buddha is one of the most important aspects of the Buddha story.
The fish, who was born from Vishnu’s head, is described in the story of matya.
Kurma is a mythological tortoise who was born from Vishnu’s head.
In the story of Varaha, a bull is born from Vishnu’s head.
This story is based on the story of Narasimha, who was born as a result of Vishnu’s head being turned.
Vamana’s story revolves around a dwarf who is the result of Vishnu’s hand.
Parashurama, a man who was born from Vishnu’s thigh, is the story of this god.
Is Gautam Buddha Avatar Of Lord Krishna?
Buddha, like Gautama Buddha, does not belong to Dashavatara. His avatara status is almost considered a heresy by orthodox Hindus and Buddhists alike because he has never been a part of Hindu tradition.
The Many Gods And Goddesses Of Hinduism
According to many Hindu devotees, Krishna is thought to be even older than Buddha, making him the oldest living Buddha. There is no doubt that Buddhists do worship a number of other gods and goddesses that Hinduism incorporates into its scriptures, despite their differing conception of creator deities.
Why Did Lord Vishnu Take Balarama Avatar?
There are many reasons why Lord Vishnu took the Balarama avatar. One reason is that Lord Vishnu wanted to help his devotee, King Yadu, who was having difficulties ruling his kingdom. Lord Vishnu also wanted to kill the demon king, Ravana. By taking the Balarama avatar, Lord Vishnu was able to accomplish both of these tasks.
According to the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Balarama is the powerful warrior who has guided and consulted Lord Krishna. He is regarded as a military expert in the field of Greco-Persian combat, as he developed his knowledge of combat to Bhima and Duryodhan. After being married to Draupadi before he married Subhadra, he married Arjuna and became enraged with her. A herd of elephants was thought to be smaller than Balaram’s. His life, which began with divine birth and ended with a marriage that was both love and marriage, is one of the most fascinating in the history of mankind. His two disciples were fighting in Mahabharata when he learned of the war, so he chose not to participate in it and took a neutral position.
Who Took Balarama Avatar?
Krishna is often referred to as an incarnation of Vishnu; Balarama is an incarnation of Shesha, the serpent Vishnu’s god. According to some interpretations of Vishnu, he is one of the ten principle avatar.
Is Balarama Avatar Of Lakshman
There is no clear consensus on whether or not Balarama is an avatar of Lakshman. Some say that Balarama is an incarnation of Vishnu, while others believe that he is an expansion of Krishna. There are also those who believe that Balarama is an independent deity.
Sesha-Naga, Lord Vishnu’s eternal serpent, is thought to be the eldest son of Sage Kashyapa and his wife Kadru. Vishnu still has room to rest in infinity because he still represents infinity when the entire world falls into disuse. Shesha-naga will be the elder brother of Lakshman when Vishnu isincarnated as Rama on earth. Seshe, Krishna’s elder brother, is born before Vishnu in the Dwapara-yuga, in which he decides to incarnate as Krishna. Before Sesha can reach Vishnu’s abode in Vaikuntha, she must leave the earth. Balarama is still revered for his bravery and simplicity even after Lakshman is known for his righteousness and amd faithfulness. Dhruv Kabra is the Editor-in-Chief and Head of Media at a youth organization called the International Crisis Summit, which he founded.
Purpose Of Balarama Avatar
Balarama is the plough-wielding brother of Krishna. He is also sometimes known as Balabhadra. He is considered as a partial avatar of Adishesha. Balarama’s birth is said to have brought joy to the Yadus, who were persecuted by King Jarasandha. Balarama is said to have killed Dhenuka, an asura sent by Kamsa, as well as Pralamba, a second asura sent by the same king.
What is Balaram’s avatara? Lord Vishnu, through his avatar, teaches us how to live. In Ramayana, brother Laxmana is shown to be suspicious of Kaikeyi, a step mother. Lord Krishna displayed superior logic and compliance to the eternal destiny in his subsequent role as Lord of the Rings. During his exile (Mahabharata), Balarama (Mahabharata) had more family life and was willing to serve his elder brother (Mahayana). As a result, if Balarama is seen as an avatar (smaller / lesser) of Lord Krishna, it is acceptable. In his nineteenth and twentieth incarnations, the Lord transformed Himself into Lord Balar*ma and Lord K*a in the family of V*i, removing the burden of the world from Him.
What Is The Purpose Of The Avatars?
An avatar is the human or animal form of the god of the world in Hinduism. The Buddha Gautama and Kalkin (the incarnation to come) are the ten different Vishnu appearances mentioned in the Pali calendar.
Is Balarama Avatar Of Shiva?
The Avatar of Vishnu and Brother of Krishna was born not to Devaki, Mother of Krishna, but to Vasudeva’s other wife, Rohini.
What Balarama Means?
Balarama’s name implies that he is a strong man with a sense of duty and honesty. He protects the faithful by keeping them from desires. The origins of Balarama are a source of many legends. As one of them, Vishnu was told by the gods to save them from Kamsa, the demon king.
10 Interesting Facts about Balarama – The God of Agriculture
Balarama, who is also known as Balabhadra, is the elder brother of Shri Krishna and the husband of Revati. Balarama is a symbol of strength, an obedient son, an ideal brother and husband, an ideal man, and a God. He is also known as Nilavastra as he is said to have a fair complexion and clad in a dark blue vest.
Lord Balarama Facts
Although Balarama was addicted to wine and was very short-tempered and stubborn, he is also regarded as a protector from desires, the divinity of strength or the strength of the divine, symbolizing duty, honesty, and simplicity.
1. The Divine
The elder brother of Krishna, Balarama is also known as Baladeva, Balabhadra, Haladhara, and Halayudha. Significant in the Jagannath tradition, Balarama is regarded as one of the triad deities and generally, Balarama is also included as the eighth avatar of Vishnu in the Sri Vaishnava lists of Dashavatar. From the evolutionary angle, this Avatar marks the period when humans started a settled way of life taking to agriculture.
It is said that God Vishnu incarnated as Balarama when Indra and the other gods came to Lord Vishnu and asked for the release from the demon son Kamsa, King of Mathura. Vishnu took one black and one white hair from his head and promised that these two would come to fight against the demons. This way, first Balarama (the white hair) and then Krishna (the black hair) took birth and grew up together in a cowherd’s family.
2. An incarnation of Adi-Anant Shesh Naag
Along with, being an avatar of Vishnu, many texts also mention Balarama as an avatar of Adi Anant Shesh Naag, the many-headed serpent, upon whom Lord Vishnu rests in Kshirasagara, which is the ocean of milk. Shesh Nag is the king of all nagas. He holds all the planets of the universe on its hood. That could explain the reason behind Balarama’s tremendous strength, believed to be stronger than a herd of elephants.
3. Lakshmana reincarnated as Balarama
Lakshmana once said that since he is younger than Rama, each command by his elder brother had to be obeyed by him. This is the reason why his wish to become the elder brother was fulfilled in the next incarnation. While Lord Vishnu became the younger Krishna and Sesh Naag became the elder brother Balarama.
Even here, the brotherhood of Balaram and Krishna is similar to that of Rama and Lakshmana, both were sons of Dasharath although they had different mothers.
Sheshnaag is inseparable from Vishnu, as when Vishnu descended on earth as Rama, Sheshnaag incarnated as Lakshmana and when Vishnu later incarnated as Krishna, Shesh Naag accompanied him as his elder brother Balarama.
4. A Powerful Warrior
Balaram was an excellent warrior in mace warfare (Gada Yuddh). As a child, Balaram killed many asuras (demons) sent by Kansa: prominent of those were Dhenukasur and Pralambasur. While a majority were killed by Krishna, those killed by Balaram were also very dangerous. He was so strong that he believed to be stronger than a herd of elephants.
5. The Guru of Bhim and Duryodhana
Duryodhana and Bhima were disciples of Balarama. Both Bhim and Duryodhana were taught the skills of mace fight (Gada Yuddh) by Balarama. Both of them had also approached him to be part on their sides. Though, Duryodhan was his favorite disciple he refused to fight for him. He also did not fight from the side of Bhima, Balarama remained neutral as he cared for both.
6. The God of Agriculture
Balaram usually wields a plow and is known as the “Farmer God”. Thus, he was very strong, and his weapons were a mace and a plow. In the ‘Vishnudharmottara Purana,’ it was laid down that Balabhadra should be worshipped by those who desire to possess power and obtain success in agriculture.
7. Yoga Samadhi
Few years after Mahabharata, men in Krishna’s empire who were known as Yadavas forgot their religious duties and started fighting. Yadava civil war, where even Balarama took part in the battle caused the destruction of the remainder of the Yadu Vanshia and all of them killed each other. This distraught Balaram and he lost all interest in life. He sat under a tree in meditation and soon reached the state of Yoga Samadhi and a spirit in the shape of a snake came out of the body, as, Balaram was an incarnation of Adi Anant Seshnaag and his body fell off like a corpse.
He chooses his incarnation first as he is Adisesha and he had to be there in Vaikuntha before Krishna’s return who is Vishnu. The place where he departed is situated near Somnath Temple in Gujarat. The local people of Veraval believe that in the cave near the temple place, the white snake who came out of Balarama’s mouth got into that cave and went back to Pataal Loka.
8. Simple and Honourable
Balaram was very straight-forward and did not always understand Lord Krishna’s complex logic although, he always agreed with his younger brother. When Krishna gave Narayani Sena to Duryodhana, it also included Balarama, but Balarama did not want to fight for both sides. The reason being he was an honorable person who could not fight his own brother Krishna and his disciples Bhim or Duryodhana. He advised them to stop the war, but none responded, so in Krishna’s suggestion he simply left for Pilgrimage to avoid the war and arrived only at the end of the war.
9. An Interesting Marriage
Revati, wife of Balaram was the only daughter of King Kakudmi, a powerful monarch who ruled Kusasthali, a prosperous and advanced kingdom.
Feeling that no human could prove to be good enough to marry his lovely and talented daughter, Kakudmi took Revati with him to Brahmaloka (abode of Lord Brahma) to ask God’s advice about finding a suitable husband for Revati.
Brahma laughed loudly and explained that time runs differently on different planes of existence and that during the short time they had waited in Brahmaloka to see him, 27 chatur-yugas(a chatur-yuga is a cycle of four yugas, hence 27 chatur-yugas total 108 yugas, the Garga Samhita differs and says 27 yugas in total) had passed on Earth and all the candidates had died long ago. However, Brahma comforted him and added that God Vishnu was currently on Earth in the forms of Krishna and Balarama and he recommended Balarama as a worthy husband for Revati.
Kakudmi and Revati then returned to earth, which they regarded as having left only just a short while ago. They were shocked by the changes that had taken place. Not only had the landscape and environment changed, but over the intervening 27 chatur-yugas, in the cycles of human spiritual and cultural evolution, mankind was at a lower level of development than in their own time. The Bhagavata Purana describes that they found the race of men had become “dwindled in stature, reduced in vigor, and enfeebled in intellect.”
Kakudmi and Revati found Balarama and proposed the marriage. As she was from an earlier yuga, Revati was far taller and larger than her husband-to-be. Balarama tapped his plow (his characteristic weapon) on her head or shoulder and she shrunk to the normal height of people in Balarama’s age. The marriage was then duly celebrated.
10. The Divine Birth
Kansa was the brother of Devaki and was informed that we would be killed by his 8th Nephew. Hearing which Kansa, in no time, had Devaki and her husband Vasudeva arrested. Thus, he killed all their children which followed till the birth of the other six sons. Now, The Sesha Nag started to inhabit the womb of Devaki Maa and Kansa saw the divinity on the face of Devaki and suddenly understood that God was residing inside her womb. This was the seventh son.
Thus, Lord Vishnu called Yogmaya and told her about the change in his plans. Then, Yogmaya took Sesha Nag to the womb of Rohini, who was another wife of Vasudeva. Ensuring which, Yogmaya penetrated into the womb of Yashoda and Vishnu entered the womb of Devaki Maa. The Seventh Son was non-other than Balarama himself and the rest is history.
An Overview of the Story of the Birth of Balarama
This is about a mythological story about the birth of Balarama. Balarama’s birth is one incident reflecting the various sides of Hindu society’s motifs, ideologies, traditions and cultures. Balarama is one of the most powerful characters in Hindu mythology. Balarama was born to Rohini, Vasudeva’s 2nd wife. In Hindu mythology, Balarama is the elder brother of Krishna. He is also known as Baladeva, Balabhadra and Halayudha. In the Puranas, he is a deity who helps in slaying demons and protecting dharma. This story teaches kids about the birth of Balarama and how significant a figure he is in both Hindu mythology and culture.
The Story of the Birth of Balarama
Kansa, the wicked king of Mathura, had imprisoned Devaki, Vasudeva’s wife and sixth child in their line. A wicked man’s killing of a baby saddened Devaki very much. To appease her grief, Vasudeva prayed for protection from Vishnu.
One day in a dream, Vishnu appeared to Devaki and announced that the divine king of snakes Sheshnaga would be born as her seventh child. He told her that Kansa would not kill the child; he had already killed Devaki’s first six sons. But a seventh son was miraculously transferred from Devaki to Rohini, Vasudeva’s second wife, and Krishna is the younger brother of that baby.
Balarama was born in the month of Sridhara during the full moon, which falls in July. Later Krishna, the 9th avatar of Vishnu, was born. Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva but was brought up by Nanda Baba.
He was named Rama initially but was called “Balarama,” which means “strong Rama” for his superior strength. He was also called “Balabhadra,” which means “strong brother” because he was the elder brother of Krishna, who was born to protect and help lord Krishna.
Moral of the Birth of Balarama Story
The mythological tale teaches kids about how Balarama is born and it also talks a bit about Krishna and Balarama. It helps the children to understand the Hindu culture and brings them closer to the Hinu epics than before. This story can teach the children how Krishna was saved to fulfil the greatest mission of Gods. This story is directly linked to the brotherhood of Krishna and Balaram, the two most powerful Gods of all time.
Note to the Parents
We all know how important it is to keep children attached to our culture because of the sake of knowledge. So, parents can tell this story about Krishna and Balarama to the kids and let them know the mythological story of Balaram’s birth, why Krishna eats mud, etc. After all, it is because of him, saints were saved from various demons later. This tale is a perfect example of courageousness, hope and faith. So, parents can also use this story as an example to instil some great thoughts in children’s minds.