Story of Krishna’s Disappearance

Chapter 3, 4

Once, the children of the Yadu dynasty took their mockery too far, and when they angered the sages they were cursed to face destruction. A few months later, at Prabhasa-ksetra, the family members accepted the remnants of a sacrifice, which included liquor. Consequently, they all became intoxicated, lost their clarity of consciousness and spoke harshly to each other.

Their arguments escalated and the Yadus eventually destroyed each other. Having removed His dynasty, Krishna now prepared His own departure. He instructed Uddhava to go to Badarikasrama and avoid the mayhem that would take place once He left the planet. Uddhava, however, remained with Krishna due to his attachment. At that time, Maitreya arrived, and the Lord spoke to them both. Having requested instructions from the Lord, Uddhava was enlightened with transcendental, timeless wisdom. When Vidura enquired about the details of that discourse, Uddhava directed him to approach Maitreya Muni, who had heard that same wisdom, was older in age and was also residing nearby.

Sukadeva Goswami philosophically clarified how it was the supreme desire of Krishna to leave the planet. The Lord had completed His mission and was confident that Uddhava could disseminate knowledge of Him to the world, especially the sages at Badarikasrama who Krishna could not meet personally. Thus, His earthly pastimes came to their natural conclusion.

After some days, Vidura reached the Ganges, where he met Maitreya Muni.