The Krishna Effect: Devrishi’s Epic Transforms into Music and Film

Inspired by the Madhya Pradesh government’s scheme Shri Krishna Pathey, writer Rishikesh Pandey, also known as Devrishi, has published the novel The Krishna Effect, which is based on modern philosophy and psychology. The novel runs two parallel narratives: on one hand, today’s youth struggling with mental stress in the fast pace of life, and on the other, their search for solutions through the teachings and Leelas of Shri Krishna.

Under the Shri Krishna Pathey project, all the places associated with Lord Krishna’s life will be covered. These include Ujjain, where Krishna received education at Sandipani Ashram; Janapav, where Lord Parashuram gifted him the Sudarshana Chakra; and Amjhera, where Krishna fought with Rukmi, the brother of Rukmini.

The novel narrates these stories through the journey of three friends traveling from Vrindavan to Dwarka. Along the way, episodes such as Krishna’s friendship with Sudama, his marriage with Rukmini, and his meeting with Parashuram are woven into the tale, making it not just a geographical journey but also a cultural and spiritual exploration of Krishna’s influence.

A poster of a person in a dark room

The Hindi version of the novel has been published by Mahagatha under the title Shri Krishna Pathey. It has been edited by Shriram Tiwari, Secretary of Veer Bharat Nyas, and its preface has been written by Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. In his words: “This is a bridge between eternal knowledge and modern philosophy. The youth will like it, and the novel will surely provide mental solutions.”

In the novel, philosopher-musician Devrishi presents his Sonic Philosophy (Dhwani Darshan) a concept that combines ancient Vedic sounds with modern science to promote mental health. Here, Krishna’s flute is described as the carrier of sound, Rukmini’s love for Krishna arises just by listening, the Bhagavad Gita is seen as a song, and Arjuna’s restless mind finds peace through Krishna’s consciousness.

Along with the novel, devotional songs such as Krishna Stuti, Braj Ke Nandlala, Hari Bol, Krishnamay, and Hare Krishna were released. Among these, Krishna Stuti is currently trending on YouTube and other music platforms. Encouraged by this success, filmmaker Sadhana Pandey, co-founder of Sanatan Wisdom, is producing a documentary film series based on the novel.

She said: “Shri Krishna is considered the complete incarnation in Indian tradition, whose teachings inspire generations. Yet, even today, many people are unaware of Krishna’s geographical journey. Through this documentary series, we aim to showcase the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical impact of those places.”