This mythological story talks about who is Balarama. This story is about the birth of Balrama, the older brother of Krishna. It teaches kids about:
Various things about Hindu Gods.
Various traditions and cultures.
An Overview of the Story of the Birth of Balarama
This is about a mythological story about the birth of Balarama. Balarama’s birth is one incident reflecting the various sides of Hindu society's motifs, ideologies, traditions and cultures. Balarama is one of the most powerful characters in Hindu mythology. Balarama was born to Rohini, Vasudeva's 2nd wife. In Hindu mythology, Balarama is the elder brother of Krishna. He is also known as Baladeva, Balabhadra and Halayudha. In the Puranas, he is a deity who helps in slaying demons and protecting dharma. This story teaches kids about the birth of Balarama and how significant a figure he is in both Hindu mythology and culture.
The Story of the Birth of Balarama
Kansa, the wicked king of Mathura, had imprisoned Devaki, Vasudeva's wife and sixth child in their line. A wicked man's killing of a baby saddened Devaki very much. To appease her grief, Vasudeva prayed for protection from Vishnu.
One day in a dream, Vishnu appeared to Devaki and announced that the divine king of snakes Sheshnaga would be born as her seventh child. He told her that Kansa would not kill the child; he had already killed Devaki's first six sons. But a seventh son was miraculously transferred from Devaki to Rohini, Vasudeva's second wife, and Krishna is the younger brother of that baby.
Balarama was born in the month of Sridhara during the full moon, which falls in July. Later Krishna, the 9th avatar of Vishnu, was born. Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva but was brought up by Nanda Baba.
He was named Rama initially but was called "Balarama," which means "strong Rama" for his superior strength. He was also called "Balabhadra," which means "strong brother" because he was the elder brother of Krishna, who was born to protect and help lord Krishna.
Balrama holding his astra
Moral of the Birth of Balarama Story
The mythological tale teaches kids about how Balarama is born and it also talks a bit about Krishna and Balarama. It helps the children to understand the Hindu culture and brings them closer to the Hinu epics than before. This story can teach the children how Krishna was saved to fulfil the greatest mission of Gods. This story is directly linked to the brotherhood of Krishna and Balaram, the two most powerful Gods of all time.
Note to the Parents
We all know how important it is to keep children attached to our culture because of the sake of knowledge. So, parents can tell this story about Krishna and Balarama to the kids and let them know the mythological story of Balaram’s birth, why Krishna eats mud, etc. After all, it is because of him, saints were saved from various demons later. This tale is a perfect example of courageousness, hope and faith. So, parents can also use this story as an example to instil some great thoughts in children’s minds.
FAQs on The Story of the Birth of Balarama
1. How did Balarama get his name?
The name Balarama means "one who carries a plough." He got this name because he was born holding a plough in his hand. Balarama is Krishna's elder brother.
2. Who was Balarama's mother?
Balarama was the son of Rohini and Vasudeva, who was friends with Nanda, the chief of the cowherds. According to legend, Balarama was born with a plough on his hand and was known as Gada Danda. People called him Danda Nandana because Lord Brahma had granted him a boon that made him invincible.
3. Who is Balarama?
Balarama is one of the most popular characters in Hindu mythology. He is also the elder brother of Krishna, who was born to Devaki and Vasudeva. Balarama’s name means “God of strength.” He is considered an avatar of Sheshnag, and his role in the Mahabharata is significant.
4. How are Krishna and Balrama related?
The Hindu god Krishna is considered the eighth incarnation of Vishnu, the preserver of the Universe. He is a very important figure in the Bhagavad Gita and is known for his many heroic acts and miracles. Balrama was his elder brother. They both had the same father, but their mother was different. His brother Balarama is also a powerful god in his own right. Though Krishna eats mud and he is naughty, Balaram and Krishna love each other.
5. Why is Balarama portrayed with a plough?
The plough, also known as a vajra, has been used since ancient times to symbolise power and authority. Balarama was portrayed with a plough because the plough represents agriculture and land. In Hindu mythology, it is believed that Balarama used his plough to defeat the demon king Narakasura.
This mythological story talks about who is Balarama. This story is about the birth of Balrama, the older brother of Krishna. It teaches kids about:
Various things about Hindu Gods.
Various traditions and cultures.
