Question

How is the Krishna depicted in the Mahabharata different from the Krishna of the Bhakti movement?

Answer 1

Hey there !!

Krishna of the Mahabharata is a human being, a shrewd leader of a principality and a close friend of Arjuna. As a close friend, when Arjuna faces a psychological crisis in the actual Mahabharata war, Krishna acts as a counsellor, a friend, philosopher and guide.

By the time we reach the Bhakti movement, Krishna has over several generation of story - telling, become a God with divine powers. He has been transformed into an object of worship with temples and cults associated with him.

Hope this helps !!