Story Summary
Experience the epic battle as Krishna kills Kamsa, the tyrant of Mathura. Discover how the prophecy was fulfilled and dharma was restored in this Hindu myth.
King Kamsa, the tyrant ruler of Mathura, lived in constant fear of a divine prophecy stating that the eighth son of his sister Devaki would be his end. To thwart fate, he imprisoned Devaki and her husband Vasudeva, killing their first six children. However, the eighth child, Krishna, was miraculously spirited away to the village of Gokul. Years later, hearing of a powerful youth in the countryside, Kamsa invited Krishna and his brother Balarama to a wrestling tournament in Mathura, plotting their assassination. After slaying the mad elephant Kuvalayapida at the city gates and defeating Kamsa's champion wrestlers, Krishna leaped onto the royal dais. He seized the terrified Kamsa by his hair and dragged him to the center of the arena. With a single strike, Krishna ended the tyrant's life, fulfilling the prophecy and liberating his parents and the people of Mathura from years of oppression.
The Moral
No matter how powerful a tyrant becomes, divine justice and righteousness will always prevail over evil and ego.
“The weight of your sins has finally caught up with you, Uncle.”
Fun Fact
The event of Krishna slaying Kamsa is still celebrated annually in parts of India as 'Kansa Vadh,' where large effigies of the demon king are burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Krishna Kills Kamsa?
The story teaches that justice eventually catches up with those who rule through fear and cruelty. It highlights that the divine will of dharma will always overcome the ego of a tyrant.
Why did Kamsa want to kill Krishna?
Kamsa was told by a celestial voice that the eighth child of his sister Devaki would kill him. This prophecy turned him into a paranoid ruler who sought to eliminate his nephew at any cost.
Where did the battle between Krishna and Kamsa take place?
The final confrontation took place in the city of Mathura. Kamsa had organized a grand wrestling tournament, intending to use it as a trap to kill Krishna and Balarama.
How did Krishna survive Kamsa's attempts as an infant?
On the night of his birth, the prison guards fell into a deep sleep and the locks opened miraculously. Vasudeva carried baby Krishna across the Yamuna river to safety in Gokul.
Who were the other victims of Kamsa's tyranny?
Kamsa imprisoned his own father, Ugrasena, to take the throne. He also murdered six of Devaki's newborn babies in his desperate attempt to stop the prophecy.
Which scripture contains the story of Krishna and Kamsa?
The detailed accounts of Krishna's life, including his battle with Kamsa, are found in the Bhagavata Purana, the Vishnu Purana, and the Harivamsa.
