Yashoda

Yashoda (Sanskrit: यशोदा, Yaśodā) is a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, particularly within the Krishna tradition. She is revered as the foster mother of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. While not Krishna's biological mother (Devaki was), Yashoda raised Krishna as her own son in Gokul, nurturing and showering him with love and affection.

Yashoda’s devotion to Krishna is central to her significance. Her maternal love (vatsalya) is often highlighted as a powerful example of unconditional devotion. Stories surrounding Yashoda depict her innocence, her playful interactions with the infant Krishna, and her occasional frustration with his mischievous nature. These narratives form a cornerstone of Krishna devotion, particularly amongst those who identify with the vatsalya bhava (parental love) towards the deity.

Key events associated with Yashoda include:

• Krishna's Birth and Concealment: Following Krishna's birth to Devaki in Mathura, Vasudeva, his father, secretly brought him to Gokul to protect him from King Kamsa, who intended to kill him due to a prophecy. Vasudeva exchanged Krishna with a newborn daughter of Yashoda and Nanda.

• Childhood Pastimes: Yashoda witnessed and was often involved in Krishna's numerous childhood leelas (divine plays), such as stealing butter (makhan chori), and playing pranks with the other gopis (cowherd women).

• The Vision of the Universe: One famous story recounts Yashoda peering into Krishna's mouth and witnessing the entire universe within, revealing his divine nature. This event underscores the paradox of Yashoda's motherhood: she cares for the Supreme Being as her child, unaware of his full potential.

Yashoda's character exemplifies the power of selfless love and the importance of maternal affection in shaping a child's life. She is venerated as a symbol of perfect motherhood and unwavering devotion in the Vaishnava tradition. Her stories are commonly retold in Hindu scriptures, devotional songs (bhajans), and theatrical performances (raslila).