KRISHNA’S COURAGE AND LEADERSHIP: THE UNTOLD TALE OF RIDING HASTIN

As Janmashtami approaches, we reflect on the extraordinary life of Lord Krishna, whose wisdom and courage marked him as a natural leader, even in his youth. Among the many tales that highlight his remarkable character is the fascinating story of how, as a young boy, Krishna tamed and rode a ferocious stud bull named Hastin. This incident, occurring when Krishna was between 14 and 15 years old, showcases not only his bravery but also his profound understanding and leadership abilities—traits that earned him the respect and admiration of his entire community.

The Mighty Hastin: A Symbol of Power and Danger

In the pastoral community of Vrindavan, Hastin, a massive and violent stud bull, was both revered and feared. His very name, meaning "elephant," conveyed his enormous size and strength. Hastin’s aggression was unmatched; he was so dangerous that only two caretakers who had been with him since his youth dared to approach him. Yet, he was kept for his breeding value, as he was the source of an entire breed of cows in Vrindavan.

Krishna’s elder brother, Balarama, known for his immense strength and warrior spirit, often spoke of his desire to overpower Hastin. In one of their playful but serious discussions, Balarama declared his wish to be strong enough to kill Hastin with a single punch. This conversation took place on the evening of a full moon after a long day of dancing, when the boys were boasting and challenging each other.

The Bet: Krishna’s Bold Declaration

In response to Balarama’s boast, Krishna casually declared, "By the next full moon day, I’m going to ride Hastin." At first, the boys dismissed this as mere talk. However, as the days passed and the next Pournami, or full moon, approached, Balarama brought up the challenge again. “You said by Pournami you will ride Hastin. How? I’m sure you can’t,” he teased. Krishna, with his usual calm determination, replied, “I’m going to ride Hastin by Pournami.”

The boys were now genuinely concerned. What had started as a playful exchange had turned into a serious commitment. Krishna, however, was unfazed. Unknown to his friends, he had been spending the past month carefully working on his plan.

The Flute and the Bull: Krishna’s Strategy

Each day, Krishna visited the place where Hastin was tied. Despite the bull’s violent nature, Krishna sat at a distance, playing his flute. The music, infused with Krishna’s divine energy, began to have a calming effect on the aggressive bull. Slowly, Krishna introduced himself to Hastin by offering him sweet treats, such as straw mixed with jaggery, from a safe distance. Over time, he inched closer and closer, until one day he was able to touch the bull.

By the time the full moon arrived, Krishna had built a relationship with Hastin. The once fearsome bull now accepted Krishna’s presence, though no one else knew about this secret bond.

The Ride: A Miraculous Feat

On the day of the full moon, Krishna announced his intention to ride Hastin, despite his friends’ pleas to withdraw the bet. Even Radha, deeply worried, tried to dissuade him, saying, “If you are going to ride Hastin and get killed, I am also going to ride Hastin and get killed.” Krishna, however, remained resolute. He assured Radha that she could join him, but only after he had calmed the bull.

As Krishna approached Hastin, his friends watched in fear. The bull, initially agitated by the presence of others, began to relax as Krishna played his flute and offered him sweets. Gently, Krishna signaled Radha to stand behind him, so that Hastin would not perceive her presence. Once the bull was calm, Krishna leapt onto his back, pulling Radha up with him.

Hastin, startled and enraged, charged through the town and into the forest with Krishna and Radha clinging to his back. The sight of this daring feat left the townspeople in awe. Eventually, Hastin exhausted himself and began to graze peacefully, with Krishna and Radha still on his back. What had seemed like a reckless act turned into a miraculous display of courage and control.

A Leader Emerges: The Impact of Krishna’s Feat

This incident, among many others, solidified Krishna’s reputation as a natural leader and a force of wisdom in Vrindavan. By the time he was 15 or 16, even the elders of the community sought his counsel. Krishna’s ability to stay calm under pressure, his strategic thinking, and his unwavering determination earned him a place of respect and admiration.

As we celebrate Janmashtami, this story serves as a powerful reminder of Krishna’s divine qualities and his extraordinary leadership. Just as Krishna tamed the wild Hastin with patience, wisdom, and love, we can draw inspiration from his life to navigate the challenges we face.

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~Mimansa Sharma