“What appears to be, may not be. And what will be, won’t even give a hint.” This statement is not just the essence of Lord Krishna’s diplomacy, but today it also mirrors India’s modern strategic mindset. History testifies that the most decisive battles are often fought in silence — and sometimes, the greatest victory lies in a step that appears, outwardly, to be a withdrawal. When King Jarasandh of Magadh repeatedly attacked Mathura, exhausting its defenses and threatening the Yadava clan’s survival, Lord Krishna took an unexpected decision — he left Mathura and built the city of Dwarka deep in the sea. This wasn’t cowardice; it was foresight. It wasn’t an escape from battle, but a strategic move to avoid one and secure victories in many. That is why he came to be known as Ranchhod (the one who leaves the battlefield), yet he ultimately returned with Bhima to defeat Jarasandh. The most critical component of this strategy was the Surprise Element — the unpredictable path that ensur...