The stories related to Lord Shri Krishna and his maternal uncle King Kansa are considered an important part of Indian mythological history. Be it Janmashtami or description of the pastimes of Shri Krishna, the name of Kansa is definitely heard everywhere.
Although many people only know that Kansa was a tyrannical king and Lord Krishna killed him, but many questions remain in the minds of people regarding his family and relationships. The most asked question is who was Kansa’s mother and was Lord Krishna’s mother Devaki really his real sister?
Who was the powerful Kansa?
Kansa was considered the king of Mathura and a powerful warrior of the Yadav dynasty. He was the son of King Ugrasen and is said to be very strong since childhood. It is said that Kansa was adept in the art of war and great warriors were afraid of his power. But after getting power and authority, his nature became cruel and arrogant. He himself captured the power of Mathura by removing his father Ugrasen from the throne. In mythology, Kansa has been described as a ruler who, due to his fear and pride, started torturing even innocent people. This cruelty later became the cause of his destruction.
What was the name of Kansa’s mother?
In many religious texts, the name of Kansa’s mother has been mentioned as Padmavati. She was the wife of King Ugrasen of Mathura. Although other names are also mentioned at some places in different stories and folk beliefs, the name Padmavati is the most accepted. It is said that Kansa was born in a royal family and received power, glory and authority since childhood. Despite this, his nature gradually became harsh and violent. It is also mentioned in many stories that wrong company and excessive power had increased the cruelty within him.
Was Devaki the real sister of Kansa?
According to religious texts, Devaki was the real sister of Kansa. Devaki was the daughter of King Devak, who is said to be the brother of Ugrasena. Devaki was Kansa’s cousin from this relationship. Devaki was married to Vasudev of Yadav dynasty. It is said that Kansa loved his sister Devaki very much and her marriage was organized with great pomp. Even after marriage, he himself was driving a chariot to bid farewell to his sister, but during this time, a voice from the sky changed his life completely.