The story discusses the varying representations of Krishna's skin color throughout history and art. In the ancient Sanskrit text, Valmiki's Ramayana, Hanuman describes Ram as having a dark complexion, and folk poetry refers to Krishna as being as dark as monsoon clouds. However, popular art often depicts both figures with blue skin, leading to questions about their true color. In old temples, Krishna is typically represented as a black stone idol, contrasting with the fair-skinned Radha. Yet, in modern temples, marble images of Krishna are becoming more popular. Historical references, including cave paintings and texts like the Mahabharata, suggest Krishna was seen as dark-complexioned, which has evolved over time into a veneration of his beauty associated with dark clouds and blue lotuses. The earliest known images of Krishna are found on Indo-Greek coins and Gupta stone statues, with miniature art also depicting him. The image of Jagannath, representing multiple deities, is painted with black soot, further illustrating the complex portrayal of Krishna's skin color over the centuries.

by Devdutt Pattanaik in English Mythological Stories

Writen by Devdutt Pattanaik

Category Mythological Stories