A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1381

c5.1381

PRALAMBA. An Asura killed by Krishna, according to the Mahā-bhārata. His story as told in the Vishnu Purāna is, that he was an Asura and a dependant of Kansa. With the object of devouring the boys Krishna and Bala-rāma, he joined them and their playmates in jumping. Pralambā was beaten by his opponent Bala-rāma, and by the rules of the game had to carry the victor back on his shoulders to the starting-place. He took up Bala-rāma and then expanded his form, and was making off with his rider when Bala-rāma called upon Krishna for assistance. Krishna made a long speech, and ended by telling him to suspend awhile his mortal character and do what was right. Bala-rāma laughed, squeezed Pralamba with his knees, and beat him on the head with his fists till his eyes were knocked out and his brain forced through his skull, so that he fell to the ground and expired.