Dwarakadisha Krishna (Pasttimes of Krishna in Dwaraka) (English) Oldbook

The title "Dwarakadisha Krishna (Pastimes of Krishna in Dwaraka)" refers to a body of devotional and historical literature focusing on the life of Lord Krishna after he left his childhood home of Vrindavan and established his kingdom in the city of Dwaraka (also spelled Dwarka).

While there might be a specific "old book" with this exact title, the general content is derived from major Hindu scriptures, primarily the Tenth Canto of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and the Mahābhārata.

Key Pastimes and Themes in Dwaraka

"Dwarakadisha" means "Lord of Dwaraka." The tales of Krishna in this phase are distinct from his playful, intimate childhood lilas (pastimes) in Vrindavan, showcasing him in his role as a powerful king, statesman, and divine ruler (Aishvarya-lila).

The book would cover episodes such as:

1. Establishing Dwaraka: The construction of the fortified city of Dwaraka on an island off the coast of Gujarat after he relocated the Yadava clan from Mathura to avoid continuous attacks by Jarasandha.
2. Marriages to Queens: The stories of his principal queens (Aṣṭabhārya), most notably his marriage to Rukmini (through elopement) and Satyabhama, and his eventual marriage to the 16,100 princesses he rescued from the demon Bhaumasura (Narakasura).
3. The Syamantaka Jewel: The complex story involving the powerful Syamantaka jewel, which leads to various adventures, including recovering the jewel and marrying Jambavati and Satyabhama.
4. Sudama's Visit: The famous, poignant meeting between Krishna, the wealthy king, and his childhood friend Sudama, the poor Brahmin. This pastime emphasizes the value of pure friendship and devotion over material wealth.
5. Role in the Mahābhārata: Krishna's key role as a political advisor, diplomat, and charioteer to Arjuna, which ultimately culminates in the delivery of the Bhagavad Gita on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
6. The Fate of the Yadu Dynasty: The eventual, tragic destruction of the Yadava clan and the sinking of the city of Dwaraka into the sea after Krishna's departure from the world, marking the end of the Dvapara Yuga.

This period of Krishna's life highlights his divine majesty and power (Aishvarya), contrasting with the intimate, sweet love (Madurya) of his earlier life in Vrindavan.