A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.899

c5.899

The Mahā-bhārata gives two summaries of his exploits, of which the following are abridgments:—“While Krishna was growing up as a high-souled boy in the tribe of cowherds, the force of his arms was rendered famous by him in the three worlds.” He slew the king of the Hayas (horses), dwelling in the woods of the Yamunā. He slew the direful Dānava, who bore the form of a bull. He also slew Pralambha, Naraka, Jambha, and Pītha, the great Asura, and Muru. He overthrew and slew Kansa, who was supported by Jarā-sandha. With the help of Bala-rāma he defeated and destroyed Su-nāman, brother of Kansa and king of the Sūrasenas. He carried off the daughter of the king of the Gāndhāras at a swayam-vara, and princes were yoked to his car. He secured the death of Jarā-sandha and slew Sisu-pāla. He overthrew Saubha, the self-supporting or flying city of the Daityas, on the shore of the ocean. He conquered the Angas and Bangas, and numerous other tribes. Entering the ocean filled with marine monsters, he overcame Varuna. In Pātāla he slew Panchajana, and obtained the divine shell Pān-chajanya. With Arjuna he propitiated Agni in the Khāndava forest, and obtained the fiery weapon the discus. Mounted on Garuda, he alarmed Amarāvatī, the city of Indra, and brought away the Pārijāta tree from thence.