Indian and Himalayan Art Arjuna Chooses Lord Krishna As His
Charioteer Artist/maker unknown, India Opaque watercolor and
gold on paper Currently not on view 1988-77-10Gift of Stella
Kramrisch, 1988 LabelAfter a tense night of deliberation, the
Pandava prince Arjuna chooses to have the unarmed Krishna as his
charioteer rather than the reinforcement of Krishna's large
army. As the sky turns from gray to azure, and the army begins
to wake, Arjuna confirms his decision by a solemn vow and water
is poured over his hands as ritual witness. Although Krishna's
army is sent to fight against Arjuna, the prince has chosen
well. Krishna is in reality the supreme being, an avatar of
Vishnu. As recounted in the best-known section of the
Mahabharata, the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna will guide Arjuna's
chariot, as well as his actions and understanding.