Shankar Mahadevan: 'I have always been fascinated by Krishna, the Indian deity.'

I have always been fascinated by Krishna, the Indian deity.

In his quote, Shankar Mahadevan expresses his long-standing fascination with Krishna, the Indian deity. This statement indicates that the artist has a profound interest and deep connection to the divine figure. Krishna, a central figure in Hindu mythology, has captured the hearts and minds of millions through his legends, teachings, and divine acts. Through the praise, devotion, and admiration of individuals like Mahadevan, Krishna's significance grows beyond mythological boundaries and becomes a source of inspiration, spiritual solace, and cultural heritage. Mahadevan's fascination with Krishna is not hidden from the world, highlighting the enduring appeal and influence of this timeless deity.However, beyond the straightforward meaning of Mahadevan's quote, let us dive into an unexpected philosophical concept that can shed new light on Krishna's significance. It is the concept of non-duality, or Advaita in Hindu philosophy. Advaita asserts that there is a fundamental unity and oneness underlying all of existence, transcending the apparent polarization of the world into subject and object, good and bad, divine and human. When applied to the understanding of Krishna, this concept opens up intriguing insights into the deity's nature and teachings.Krishna is often portrayed as a divine being, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, with seemingly supernatural powers and boundless wisdom. Many mythological stories portray him as the protector and savior of humanity, leading forces of righteousness against evil. However, the concept of Advaita challenges the notion of a distinct God and challenges us to examine the divine within ourselves.In Advaita, the ultimate goal is to realize one's true nature as the same essence that underlies Krishna or any other deity. The focus shifts from perceiving Krishna as a separate entity to recognizing the divine presence within oneself and in all of creation. This realization brings about a profound connection with the divine, dissolving the illusion of separation and instilling a sense of oneness with the entire universe.Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita align with this understanding of non-duality. In the sacred scripture, Krishna imparts wisdom on various aspects of life, providing guidance on duty, spirituality, and self-realization. Through his teachings, Krishna emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embodying one's true self, beyond the superficial layers of ego and identity.One of the most profound teachings Krishna imparts in the Bhagavad Gita is the concept of "Yoga of Knowledge" or Jnana Yoga. This path emphasizes the pursuit of wisdom and self-realization as a means to attain liberation. Krishna encourages Arjuna, the protagonist of the scripture, to transcend his limited perception and awaken to the eternal truth.It is through embracing Advaita, the non-dual perspective, that Krishna's teachings become even more profound. The stories, legends, and divine acts associated with Krishna serve as reminders of the divine potential within each individual. The tales of his playful antics, his melodious flute, and his enchanting dance with the gopis convey a deeper message – an invitation to seek the joy and bliss that resides at the core of our being.In conclusion, Shankar Mahadevan's quote about his fascination with Krishna, the Indian deity, reflects the enduring allure and cultural significance of this divine figure. Beyond the surface-level interpretation, an exploration of the concept of Advaita sheds new light on Krishna's teachings and relevance. Through the lens of non-duality, Krishna becomes a symbol of our own divine potential and an inspiration to seek unity and oneness with the universe. Like Mahadevan, many individuals continue to be captivated by Krishna, not merely as an external deity, but as a guiding light to discover the divine within themselves.