Balarama
बलराम • Balarāma
"Strong Rama; Rama of Strength (Bala = Strength)"
Category & Classification
Iconography
Attributes & Weapons
- Hala (Plough) (Right hand) - Agriculture; preparation; clearing path
- Musala (Pestle/Mace) (Left hand) - Strength; destruction of enemies
- Palm wine cup - Associated with Varuni/wine
Distinctive Features
- Fair complexion
- Plough and mace
- Often in blue clothes
Family & Relations
| Origin | Conceived by Devaki; transferred to Rohini's womb (thus also called Rohini-nandana/Sankarshana) |
Mythology & Stories
Conceived by Devaki; transferred to Rohini's womb (thus also called Rohini-nandana/Sankarshana)
Balarama represents physical strength, agriculture, and unwavering support. As Sheshanaga, he is the foundational support on which Vishnu rests.
Birth and Transfer
Balarama was Devaki's seventh child. To protect him from Kamsa, the embryo was transferred to Rohini's womb by Yogamaya. He was thus born as Krishna's elder brother in Gokul.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Childhood with Krishna
Balarama grew up with Krishna in Vrindavan, participating in their divine pastimes. He killed several demons including Pralambasura, Dhenukasura, and Hastiasura.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Dragging the Yamuna
When Balarama wanted to bathe in the Yamuna and she didn't come to him, he dragged the river with his plough until she submitted. This shows his immense strength.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Marriage to Revati
Balarama married Revati, daughter of King Kakudmi (Revata). Due to time dilation (her father took her to Brahmaloka), she was from a different era, making their union unique.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Role in Mahabharata
Balarama was guru to both Duryodhana and Bhima in mace fighting. During the Kurukshetra war, he remained neutral and went on pilgrimage. He was upset when Bhima struck Duryodhana below the waist, which violated mace-fighting rules.
Source: Mahabharata
Departure
After Krishna's departure, Balarama also left his body by the seashore, with the serpent Shesha emerging from his mouth and returning to the cosmic ocean.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Worship & Mantras
Mantras
Om Balaramaya Namah
Om Namo Bhagavate Baladevaya
Om Sankarshanaaya Vidmahe Haladharine Dhimahi Tanno Balarama Prachodayat
Stotras & Hymns
Offerings
- Milk
- Rice
- Fruits
- Madira (palm wine in some traditions)
Temples
Baldeo Temple
Baldeo, Mathura, UP
Major Balarama temple; Dauji form
Ananta Padmanabha Temple
Kerala
Shesha-Vishnu connection
Jagannath Temple
Puri, Odisha
Worshipped alongside Jagannath (Krishna) and Subhadra
Associated Festivals
Astrological Connection
Symbolism & Philosophy
Cosmic Role: Supporting deity; embodiment of strength; agricultural deity
Represents the support system necessary for divine work; the strength and foundation that enables grace (Krishna) to function
| AgriculturalSymbolism | The plough represents civilization, agriculture, and preparation of ground for spiritual seeds |
