When Did Dwapara Yuga Begin and End?

According to ancient texts, the timeline of the Dwapara Yuga is intricately linked to the events of the grandsons of Luv and Kush, the iteration of the Avatars, and the departure and return of Sri Rama and Lord Krishna to Vaikuntha.

The Beginning of Dwapara Yuga

Dwapara Yuga began after the passing of the grandsons of Luv and Kush. By the time these descendants had aged, the shift from the Treta Yuga to the Dwapara Yuga was imminent. This transition was not immediate but gradual, marking a profound change in the moral and spiritual standards of society.

Events Leading to the End of the Treta Yuga and Beginning of Dwapara Yuga

Interestingly, the transition from the Treta Yuga to the Dwapara Yuga coincided with the departure of Lord Rama to Vaikuntha. The Treta Yuga officially ended with the act of immersion of Lord Rama into the Sarayu River, completing his Jala Samadhi or total cessation from material existence. His absence marked the onset of the Dwapara Yuga.

The End of Dwapara Yuga

The Dwapara Yuga concluded with the tragic end of Lord Krishna. According to mythology, Lord Krishna was killed by a hunter's arrow to his heel, a wound that was hidden but ultimately fatal. This event symbolized the end of the era and the transition into Kali Yuga.

Alternative Theories

While the above timeline is widely accepted, some texts and interpretations suggest that Dwapara Yuga began immediately after Lord Rama left for Vaikuntha. This perspective emphasizes the spiritual nature of Rama's departure and its significance in marking the transition to Dwapara Yuga. Similarly, it is often mentioned that a particular Dwapara Yuga started after the Shri Rama Avatar, adding another layer of complexity to the timeline.

Conclusion

Thus, the precise timeline of Dwapara Yuga is a topic with multiple interpretations in Vedic literature. Whether it began after the grandsons of Luv and Kush, after Lord Rama's departure, or after Lord Krishna's demise, the Dwapara Yuga was a pivotal period in human history, characterized by profound spiritual and moral changes.