A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.2015

c5.2015

VĀSU-DEVA. A name of Krishna, derived from that of his father, Vasu-deva; but as that is incompatible with his claims to divinity, the Mahā-bhārata explains that he is so called “from his dwelling (vasanāt) in all beings, from his issuing as a Vasu from a divine womb.” The name was assumed by an impostor named Paundraka, who was killed by Krishna. See Paundraka.