16 Kalas of Lord Krishna: The Complete Man and His Divine Powers

Have you ever wondered why Lord Krishna is called the Purna avatar (complete incarnation) of Lord Vishnu? A title not even given to Lord Rama. As per Hindu philosophy, kalas are the divine attributes or skills that distinguish god from humans. Due to these 16 kalas of Lord Krishna, he is considered to be perfect.

It is believed that to come down to earth in the human form, Lord Rama had to hide his skills (kala). Therefore, he only possessed 12 kalas, while Lord Krishna had 16. Each kala is like an ideal quality, which we desire to achieve as humans. And Lord Krishna is living proof, that it’s possible to embody all of these qualities in your life. Though it is not humanly possible to do so, we can still take inspiration from him and make efforts to become a better person.

What are Kalas?

The 16 kalas can be associated with the lunar cycle. Lord Krishna is a Chandravanshi, coming from the lineage of the moon. Just as the moon is complete on the 16th night, Purnima, Lord Krishna is complete with these 12 kalas. The kalas are not just good qualities that anyone can embody, they are, in themselves, an expression of the divine energy.

Exploring the 16 Kalas of Lord Krishna

Dhairya (Patience)

It refers to the ability to stay calm and grounded even during stressful times. Just like Krishna was patient when fighting the demons throughout his childhood and during the Mahabharat war as well.

Daya (Compassion)

It’s about giving the benefit of doubt. And treating everybody with kindness and respect, whether we know them or not. Every being that came in contact with Krishna was mesmerised by his kindness.

Kshama (Forgiveness)

Lord Krishna had the ability to forgive even those who wronged him. He never held any grudges or blamed anyone. When you forgive someone else, you are actually releasing yourself from the weight of the negative emotions.

Nyaya (Justice)

Krishna always fought for justice, to ensure that everyone gets rightfully rewarded or punished as per their karma. He ensured that the ones who harmed others for their personal gains payed back for it. He never fought for revenge or personal gain. Nyaya is choosing to do the right things regardless of personal feelings.

Nirapeksha (Impartiality)

It is the quality of not being biased towards, any situation or person. Krishna was impartial even towards his opponents. When Duryodhan asked for his Narayani Sena (army) he gave it away without hesitation.

Nirasakta (Detachment)

It is the state of being detached from the outcomes of your actions. Detachment is not about being numb or lazy. It’s about not letting the external circumstances affect your inner core. And freeing yourself from all expectations, which are tying you down.

Tapasya (Meditation)

Meditation isn’t sitting in uncomfortable poses for hours. It is about developing the discipline to control your mind and desires. Building the strength to control your thoughts even in times of uncertainty.

Aparchitta (Invincibility)

It’s the ability to view obstacles as opportunity for growth and come out stronger than before. It requires great strength and courage to face challenges without fear. Building an unshakeable core that is not affected by external circumstances.

Danasheel (Generosity)

It’s about giving and helping someone without expecting anything in return. It’s about giving not from a place of ego, but love. Giving without expectations also brings joy and attract abundance into your life.

Saundaryamaya (Beauty)

True beauty is not just about physical attractiveness, it refers to the purity of heart. Krishna’s innocence and playfulness charmed anyone who saw him. His outer beauty was just a reflection of his inner personality.

Nrityajna (Best of Dancers)

Dance is a way of finding peace by expressing the excess of emotional energies within us. It is about the ability to find joy and harmony even in negative or challenging situations. Letting go of control and allowing the rhythm to lead you.

Sangitajna (Best of Singers)

Music is about expressing what words can not describe. It’s about harmony and expressing your heart. When Krishna played his flute, the music did not just charm the people of his village, he captivated the entire world. Even animals and the trees would swing to the rhythm of his tunes.

Neetiwadi (Honesty)

Honesty is not just about telling the truth, it is about living a life which is true to self. Where your actions, words, and thoughts are aligned with what’s right. It is about having the courage to speak the truth even when it is difficult.

Satyawadi (Truth)

Sometimes, our ego makes it hard to accept the truth. Even when we know we are wrong, it’s hard to accept the truth. Be true to yourself, and instead of resisting your desires accept them.

Sarvagnata (Master of all arts)

Art is not about perfection, it is about finding joy in the messy and chaotic process of creating. Our ability to connect dots and create is what makes us human. Whether it is writing a poem, learning to play an instrument, or painting, these creative processes allow us to connect with our inner child and find joy.

Sarvaniyanta (controller of all)

Krishna as the supreme lord controls every aspect of existence, the universe, nature, and the destiny of all. He is the only one who can control the flow of life. For us, it means to be able to manage our thoughts and emotions instead of letting them control us.

By developing an understanding of these kalas, we can connect with Krishna on a deeper and more personal level. Walking on a spiritual path is about making these qualities a part of our daily life. These 16 kalas of Lord Krishna are a way to understand Krishna’s teaching in a way that’s easy to remember and follow.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. How many kalas did Krishna have?

Lord Krishna has 16 kalas, each kala represents a unique skill or spiritual power. These qualities together made Krishna the most complete and perfect manifestation of divine energy.

Q2. Why is Lord Rama not a purna avatar (complete incarnation)?

Lord Rama is not a complete incarnation as he manifested only the 12 kalas out of the 16 to come to earth in the human form. And was bound by the rules of society.

Q3. What are the 16 kalas of Lord Krishna?

The 16 kalad of Lord Krishna are Dhairya, Daya, Kshama, Nyaya, Nirapeksha, Nirasakta, Tapasya, Aparchitta, Danasheel, Saundaryamaya, Nrityajna, Sangitajna, Neetiwadi, Satyawadi, Sarvagnata, and Sarvaniyanta.