What would have happened if Krishna is not on the side of Pandavas?
If Krishna had not sided with the Pandavas, the outcome of the Mahabharata and the subsequent events would likely have been significantly different. Here are some key points to consider:
Political and Strategic Alliances
Krishna's support was crucial for the Pandavas due to his strategic thinking and military prowess. Without Krishna, the Pandavas might not have been able to defeat their enemies, particularly Jarasandha, the powerful king of Magadha, who was a major threat to Krishna's own kingdom of Dwaraka. Krishna's alliance with the Pandavas was mutually beneficial, as it helped him eliminate Jarasandha and secure his own kingdom1.
Outcome of the Kurukshetra War
Krishna's presence and guidance were pivotal in the Kurukshetra War. He acted as Arjuna's charioteer and provided him with the philosophical and moral guidance that helped him overcome his doubts and fight the war. Without Krishna's counsel, as given in the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna might not have mustered the resolve to engage in the battle. The Pandavas, lacking Krishna's strategic advice and divine intervention, might have lost the war against the Kauravas2.
Peace Efforts and Diplomacy
Krishna made several attempts to broker peace between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, emphasizing the importance of unity and avoiding war. If he had not been involved, these efforts might not have occurred, or they might have been less effective. Without Krishna's mediation, the conflict could have escalated sooner, leading to even greater destruction and loss of life4.
Gandhari's Curse and the Fate of the Yadavas
Gandhari's curse, which was a result of her anger towards Krishna for not preventing the war, might not have been uttered if Krishna had managed to bring about peace or had not sided with the Pandavas. This curse led to the downfall of the Yadavas, including Krishna's own death in a manner that was not glorious. Without this curse, the fate of the Yadavas and Krishna himself might have been different3.
Overall Impact on the Kingdoms
The absence of Krishna's support would have significantly altered the power dynamics and the fate of the kingdoms involved. The Pandavas might not have regained their kingdom, and the Kauravas could have continued their rule, potentially leading to a different political and social landscape in the region.
In summary, without Krishna's support, the Pandavas would likely have faced significant challenges in their struggle against the Kauravas, the war might have had a different outcome, and the subsequent events, including the fate of the Yadavas and Krishna himself, would have been altered.