Krishna is one of the most widely revered and popular of all Hindu deities. He is known and worshipped as a divine incarnation in Hinduism. But what did Krishna actually look like? Here is an in-depth examination of Krishna’s physical appearance and attributes based on traditional scriptural descriptions.
Krishna’s Complexion
The most striking aspect of Krishna’s appearance is his dark blue complexion. He is often referred to as Shyama or Neelkantha which mean “dark blue” or “blue throat” respectively. This iconic blue hue stems from Krishna’s association with the infinite, all-pervading Brahman. His complexion is said to be the color of a rain-cloud, representing the limitless sky. The Padma Purana describes Krishna as megha shyamam, meaning “the color of a new monsoon cloud.”
Krishna’s bluish color also carries deep symbolic significance. It is the color of divinity, eternity, and the infinite. His complexion is compared to that of a tamala tree, sapphires, emeralds, and fresh rain-clouds in texts like the Bhagavata Purana and Garga Samhita. Essentially, the blue represents his transcendental form beyond the material universe.
Other Colors
While dark blue is Krishna’s most commonly referenced color, he is also sometimes described as sveta or “white.” This white complexion indicates qualities of purity, enlightenment, and effulgence. Regional traditions like those of Assam, Manipur, and Vrindavan portray Krishna as golden or yellowish. This points to his status as the supreme light who illuminates the world.
Physical Attributes
In addition to his distinctive color, Krishna has an enchantingly beautiful form. Texts provide vivid descriptions of his physical features and ornate adornments.
Youthful Handsomeness
Krishna is portrayed as the epitome of male beauty and vigor. With a young, tender body, he enchants all beings. The Brahma Samhita (Verse 29) describes him as an eternally youthful cowherd boy, the color of a raincloud, with a face like a blooming lotus. His large eyes extend to his ears, and his ornaments shine brilliantly.
The Bhagavata Purana also paints a vivid picture of Krishna’s physical magnetism and irresistible allure. It states:
“Krishna’s face is beautified by His charming ears, His cheeks brilliant with earrings, and His lips resplendent in their youthful grace. The flowing of His gown conceals His thighs, hard and smooth as elephant tusks smeared with lampblack. Though He is untamable, His bodily luster overwhelmed the goddess of fortune, so what woman would not be bewildered by His embraces?”
Ornate Attire & Jewelry
As a prince of the Vrishni clan, Krishna wore splendid attire and jewelry befitting royalty. The Bhagavata Purana describes yellow garments made of fine silk and decorated with jewels. A brilliant crown, armlets, bracelets, anklets, and necklaces made of emeralds and other precious gems adorn his body. He wears a wildflower garland, peacock feather, and forest garb as a cowherd boy in Vrindavana.
Characteristic Markings
Krishna bears special bodily markings that identify him as the Supreme Lord, according to traditional scriptures. These include the Śrīvatsa mark of tilaka on his chest and the imprint of a lotus on his foot sole. He also has a distinguishing mole mark called the tilaka uurddhvapundra between his eyebrows. The Bhagavata Purana states that these marks indicate Krishna’s status as the Paramatma (Supreme Soul).
Divine Accessories
Certain weapons and accessories further emphasize Krishna’s divine position. As a cowherd in Vrindavana, he carries a stick for herding cows. He also wields the Sudarshana Chakra as a disc weapon and blows the celestial Panchajanya conch. These accessories represent his identity as Vishnu’s avatar and power over all creation.
Specific Forms & Depictions
Krishna is worshipped through different icons that highlight specific forms relating to his various pastimes and powers. Here are some key forms along with their descriptions:
Bala Krishna
This child version of Krishna crawling on his knees evokes his joyful exploits as a young toddler in Vrindavana. His right hand is poised in a mudra bestowing blessings.
Venu Gopala
Venu Gopala shows Krishna as a cowherd boy, holding his iconic bamboo flute known as the venu or murali. His legs are crossed in a seated stance, left hand on his hip in a relaxed posture.
Govardhanadhari
In this form, Krishna effortlessly lifts the huge Govardhana hill on his left hand to provide shelter from Indra’s storm. It commemorates his protection of the cowherds from Indra’s wrath.
Rasa-Lila
Rasa-lila icons depict Krishna dancing in a circle with groups of adoring gopis in Vrindavana. It symbolizes the divine union between the individual soul and the Absolute Truth.
Sayana Krishna
Sayana icons show Krishna in a reclining posture, floating on the cosmic waters alongside the multi-headed Seshanaga. It represents him as the eternal creator who withdraws the universe into himself.
| Form | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Bala Krishna | Crawling baby Krishna | Joyful childhood pastimes in Vrindavana |
| Venu Gopala | Cowherd Krishna with flute | Playful protector of cows & cowherds |
| Govardhanadhari | Krishna lifting Govardhana hill | His protection of Vrindavana from Indra’s wrath |
| Rasa-Lila | Dancing with gopis | Divine union of soul & supreme truth |
| Sayana Krishna | Reclining on cosmic ocean | The eternal creator at the end of time |
Conclusion
To summarize, Krishna has a dark bluish complexion indicating divinity, eternity, and transcendence. His physical features are described as extremely handsome and enchanting. Distinctive markings on his body identify him as the Supreme Lord. Ornate clothing, jewelry, and accessories emphasize his royal status. Different iconographic forms highlight specific pastimes and powers. So while varied traditions depict Krishna’s form in diverse ways, his core depiction as the most beautiful, charming, and sweetly playful avatar of Vishnu shines through in all representations.