Page 2 - September-2026

As a Gujarati, I think one of the first things I learned to say
was Jai Shri Krishna – probably even before I learned to chatter
endlessly. Ever since then, I have been trying to understand
Krishna, and I must admit, it has not been easy. There are
many aspects of Krishna’s life that appear controversial,
even paradoxical, and I have several questions that seekers
of my generation often ask.

Swami Swaroopananda: First of all, Krishna cannot truly be
understood. He is the Supreme Brahman, beyond the grasp of
the mind and intellect. Naturally, His lélä too cannot be understood
so easily.
But we are human beings. We try to rationalize everything
and often feel the need to justify what we see. Krishna, however,
requires no justification.
THE CAKRAVYÜHA

Fair enough, Swamiji. My first question is about dharma. Like
many in my generation, I was first introduced to Bhagavan
Krishna through television, watching the Mahabharata. I
remember hearing the famous verse, yadä yadä hi dharmasya
glänir-bhavati – that whenever adharma rises, Bhagavan
manifests to restore dharma.

Yet, throughout the Mahabharata, Krishna seems to bend
rules, overturn conventions, and employ unconventional
strategies. Some might even say He twists the rules to suit
the situation. So, Swamiji, is this dharma of convenience?
Was Krishna merely a master strategist, or was He a master
strategic manipulator?

Krishna never deviated from dharma. Rules are framed to uphold
dharma, but rules themselves are not dharma. When rules begin
to compromise dharma, they cease to deserve unquestioning
obedience.

Tapovan Prasad 30 September 2026