Balarama and Krsna are believed to have been birthed from these two hairs (Wilkins 220). It is believed that Visnu plucked two of his own hairs, one white and one black to take a physical form as an avatar. Others may consider both Balarama and Krsna as the eighth of the ten avatars together (Wilkins 221).īalarama and Krsna are the sons of Vasudeva Balarama was born to Rohini first and Krsna was born to Devaki (Rao 997). Some agree on Balarama being included as one of the ten Avatars, simultaneously accepting Krsna to have been Lord Visnu himself on earth. There is some disagreement as to which deity rightfully belongs as the eighth avatar. Although Sesa is only considered to be a reincarnation of a part of Visnu, Balarama is still considered a Visnu avatar (Wilkins 221). Ananta Sesa is considered to be the king of all snakes as well as a great force of nature that maintains the positioning of all the planets (Swami 11). This snake deity is said to have 1000 heads that hold the bare the weight of the entire world (Wilkins 221). Ananta meaning endless and Sesa meaning the end. (Wilkins 220).īalarama is also believed to be the incarnation of Ananta Sesa, the serpent king.

According to the myth of their origin, both Balarama and Krsna are incarnations of Visnu himself, Balarama is said to be his eight avatar.

These avatars are known to be the Dasa Avatar, dasa meaning 10. During times of great disaster and chaos, Visnu takes physical forms on earth time and time again as different avatars to maintain order and protect the universe from evil and destruction. He plays an important role in the great triad that includes Brahma, the creator, and Siva the destroyer (Wilkins 116). Visnu is believed to be the protector and preserver of the universe. Balarama is an ancient Hindu deity who is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Visnu, a very important deity in Hindu mythology.

Balarama pdf 2019