Mahabharata is truly an epic. Thousands of central characters play a significant role in the outcome, and there are hundreds of incidents that have an influence on those outcomes. And out of the thousands who had a role, no one played a more important role than Krishna. He influenced the whole outcome without even actively taking part sometimes. Here is how he was the real boss in Mahabharata.

Krishna knew how to sell things, and knew how to portray himself as a harmless man

Even though the Yadavas were on Kaurava’s side, Krishna still commanded an army of Narayanas – skilled cowherds who were extremely good at fighting. When Duryodhana and Arjuna came to Krishna to request his army, Krishna cleverly said that he will not take part in the war. He would be unarmed and only be a measly charioteer.

Duryodhana, as we all know, chose the million Narayanas. But the expertise was that of Krishna, who expertly portrayed himself as useless.

Krishna saved Arjuna from Bhishma’s wrath

Bhishma had promised Duryodhana that he would kill Arjuna unless Krishna himself takes up arms. Krishna knew that if Bhishma used all his powers, Arjuna is no match for him, and when the battle ensued between Arjuna and Bhishma, Bhishma came very close to defeating Arjuna. This is when Krishna picked up a chariot wheel and charged towards Bhishma.

Bhishma put down his bow and arrow and Arjuna was saved.