On Janmashtami, know significance of peacock feather on Lord Krishna’s head
Lord Krishna is always seen with a peacock feather on his crown in his images or idols. While his cosmic beauty and elegance enchant the hearts of devotees, the significance behind this unique embellishment holds much ancient lore and spiritual symbolism. The feather in his crown represents his divine nature, transcendence, and the blend of the spiritual and the natural. Let us explore the significance of peacock feather on Lord Krishna's head.
New Delhi: Lord Krishna is always seen with a peacock feather on his crown in his images or idols. While his cosmic beauty and elegance captivate the hearts of devotees, the significance behind this unique embellishment holds much ancient lore and spiritual symbolism. The feather in his crown represents his divine nature, transcendence, and the blend of the spiritual and the natural. The ‘eyes’ on the feathers are interpreted as a symbol of divine wisdom and the third eye, granting insight and knowledge.
The ‘eyes’ on the peacock feathers are believed to contain protective and auspicious powers, bringing good fortune and warding off evil. That is why many Hindu people keep these in their home temples. Among the multiple interpretations and tales regarding the presence of peacock feathers, here is an interesting one related to Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and his consort Sita from the Treta Yug.
Why does Krishna wear a peacock feather?
Lord Rama and Sita were wandering through the thick jungle during their exile, or vanavasa. Sita, feeling thirsty, asked Rama if they could find some water. A beautiful peacock appeared as soon as Rama prayed to nature for assistance, and the bird asked them to follow him.
Rama and Sita, feeling grateful, followed the peacock. However, the peacock began to pluck feathers and dropped them along the complicated jungle path to mark it. Forceful removal of feathers leads to death. Despite knowing this, the peacock continues to drop its feathers and guides the couple.
Finally, Rama and Sita quenched their thirst from a sparkling spring. However, to their dismay, they found the peacock lifeless. Touched by the peacock’s selfless sacrifice, Rama pledged to honour its kindness and bravery in his next life. Keeping his promise, Lord Rama, in his next incarnation as Lord Krishna, wore a beautiful peacock feather on his crown.
This is only one story. There are multiple legends surrounding the link between peacock feathers and Lord Krishna. One belief stated that Radha gave the peacock feather to Krishna as a token of remembrance. Some narrate it was a gesture of devotion from the peacock god to Lord Krishna. Lastly, there’s a mixed belief saying Balram presented it to his younger brother during their mischievous escapades.