Devaki facts for kids

Devaki was an important woman in ancient Indian stories, especially in the Mahabharata. She was the daughter of Devaka and the younger sister of Kansha, a powerful but cruel king of Mathura. Devaki married Vasudeva. Together, they became the parents of Krishna, who is considered a special form (an avatar) of the Hindu god Vishnu. Devaki was Krishna's birth mother.

Devaki and King Kamsa

Devaki's brother, King Kamsa, was very mean. He was afraid of a prophecy that said Devaki's eighth child would kill him. Because of this fear, Kamsa imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva. He wanted to prevent any of their children from growing up.

Kamsa's Cruelty

While Devaki and Vasudeva were in prison, Kamsa killed their first six children right after they were born. This was a very sad and difficult time for Devaki.

The Birth of Balarama and Krishna

When Devaki was expecting her seventh child, something special happened. The baby, named Balarama, was miraculously moved from Devaki's womb to the womb of another woman, Rohini. This saved Balarama from Kamsa.

Later, Devaki gave birth to her eighth child, Krishna. To protect Krishna from Kamsa, Vasudeva secretly carried the newborn baby out of the prison. He took Krishna across the Yamuna River to a safe place. There, Krishna was raised by foster parents, Nanda and Yashoda.

Devaki's Release

Devaki and Vasudeva remained in prison for a long time. Eventually, Kamsa was defeated and killed by Krishna. After Kamsa's death, Devaki and Vasudeva were finally freed from prison. They were able to live freely and be reunited with their children, Krishna and Balarama.

Images for kids

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  Vasudeva and Devaki traveling in a carriage

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  Birth and escape of Krishna.

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  A painting of Devaki with Krishna