RELS 3111

This course examines the historic development of the god Vishnu and his various avataras or manifestations, particularly Krishna the "Dark Lord," one of the most beloved deities in all of Hinduism. Beginning with early Sanskrit sources such as the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita, we follow the formation of the avatara theological system and its evolving devotional practice, broadening our scope to multiple regional traditions throughout the course. These include the Jagannatha cult at Puri, Srivaishnava traditions of South India, the immersive Ramnagar Ramlila theatre experience of North India, and modern movements such as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).