Parthasarathy

Parthasarathy (Sanskrit: पार्थसारथि, Pārthasārathi) is a form of Krishna as the charioteer (sārathi) of Arjuna (Partha) during the Kurukshetra war. This aspect is central to the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse discourse delivered by Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield, recorded in the Mahabharata (Bhishma Parva). The name combines 'Partha' (Arjuna) and 'Sārathi' (charioteer), emphasizing Krishna's role as divine guide. Vedic origins trace Krishna as an incarnation of Vishnu; the Bhagavata Purana (Skandha 10) elaborates on his life, while the Mahabharata (Udyoga Parva) sets the stage for the war.

Iconographically, Parthasarathy is depicted as a youthful Krishna in charioteer attire, holding a whip and reins, seated in a chariot drawn by four white horses, with Arjuna beside him. The chariot symbolizes the body, the horses the senses, and Krishna the inner controller (Antaryamin). The principal myth is the Gita dialogue, where Krishna reveals his cosmic form (Vishvarupa) and teaches dharma, yoga, and bhakti. Another episode from the Mahabharata (Drona Parva) recounts Krishna saving Arjuna from Jayadratha by using his Sudarshana Chakra.

Regional worship is prominent in Tamil Nadu, especially at the Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai (Triplicane), built by the Pallavas. The temple's murti shows Krishna with a whip in one hand and a conch in another, standing or seated. Festivals include Vaikunta Ekadashi and Krishna Janmashtami. In Hindu cosmology, Parthasarathy represents the guru who dispels ignorance and leads the devotee to liberation.

The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 4) states that whenever dharma declines, Krishna incarnates to restore balance. Thus, Parthasarathy embodies divine intervention and the eternal teacher-student relationship.

Krishna in charioteer attire, holding whip and reins. Seated in a chariot with Arjuna. Horses in front. Depicted delivering the Gita to Arjuna.