Six Elder Brothers of Krishna Balaram

Formerly an 'asura' named Kalanemi had six sons, named

1. Hamsa,
2. Suikrama,
3. Kratha,
4. Damana,
5. Ripurmardana and
6. Krodhahanta.

They were known as 'sad-garbhas', or six 'garbhas', and they were all equally powerful and expert in military affairs. These 'sad-garbhas' gave up the association of Hiranyakasipu, their grandfather, and underwent great austerities to satisfy Lord Brahma, who, upon being satisfied, agreed to give them whatever benediction they might desire. When asked by Lord Brahma to state what they wanted, the sad-garbhas replied, "Dear Brahma, if you want to give us a benediction, give us the blessing that we will not be killed by any demigod, 'maha-roga', 'yaksa', 'gandharva-pati', 'siddha', 'carana' or human being, nor by great sages who are perfect in their penances and austerities."

Brahma understood their purpose and fulfilled their desire. But when Hiranyakasipu came to know of these events, he was very angry at his grandsons. "You have given up my association and have gone to worship Brahma," he said,

"....And therefore I no longer have any affection for you. You tried to save yourselves from the hands of demigods, but I curse you in this way; Your father will take birth as Kamsa and kill all of you because you will take birth as the sons of Devaki."

(Sripad Vijayadhwaj Tirtha. Srimad Bhagavatam 10:1:69.).