Krishna—the Mentor, the Lover, Lord, and Yug Purush. This name holds immense significance in human lives. There is no doubt that Krishna’s followers and admirers are among the most numerous worldwide. From ancient times to today, he remains a timeless hero. Krishna is especially revered among both the devout (Dharmik) and the industrious (Karmik). For centuries, his birth anniversary has been celebrated as a grand festival, bringing people joy in a remarkable way. In India, Janmashtami is celebrated in the Hindu month of Shravan. Many parents delight in dressing their children as Krishna, Radha, Gopi, and Meera, cherishing how adorable they look—even though these young children may not yet understand Krishna and Radha, their love, or their story. 

      We know Meera was consumed with a deep longing to meet Krishna. Perhaps it wasn’t about finding Him in a worldly sense, but rather about the bond she formed with Him from a very young, innocent, almost platonic age—when even a single glimpse of Him became her life’s purpose.

    Recently, I attended a Janmashtami function featuring competitions such as painting, costume contests, and Matki Phod. It was heartwarming to watch a two-year-old boy dressed as Krishna, placed at the center by his mother. Though his cute face stole hearts, he soon grew nervous and began to cry, overwhelmed by the crowd. His mother comforted him, which seemed like a more challenging competition than any other.

      My wife interviewed several girls dressed as Krishna, asking why they chose to portray Krishna?. Most could not answer—perhaps because Krishna is perceived as more popular than Radha. Last year, after the competitions, all the Radha participants reportedly cried because only Krishnas won the prizes—there were just three prizes, all awarded to Krishnas.! This year, organizers added a separate Radha category, with three prizes each for Radhas and Krishnas. I was particularly moved by the reflection that all Radhas cried last year, just as Radha herself wept when Krishna left Gokul and never returned. The Gopis and Radhas grieved, but perhaps Krishna too grieved leaving Gokul, though no one noticed—neither in his era nor today.

       Even as a king and revered as a Lord, Krishna found himself navigating the complexities of life. He faced numerous hardships and struggles throughout his journey. Despite his divine status, Lord Krishna endured many challenges—proving that even greatness is not exempt from adversity.

     Can Radha’s dispassion and Krishna’s adornment truly be measured? Likewise, can Krishna’s longing and Radha’s adornment ever be compared?

© Jigar Soni