Significance of Paundraka
Paundraka is depicted in various texts as a character filled with anger who leads two Akshauhinis in Vaishnavism, and as a puny-minded king in the Puranas who falsely claims the title of Vasudeva while challenging Krishna to battle. He is portrayed as a mischievous boy in his childhood and as someone who adopts Krishna's insignia, misleading others into thinking he is the real Vasudeva. Additionally, in Kavya, Paundraka is suggested to perform the Naramedha Yajna, asserting his false identity.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Paundraka'
Paundraka in Hinduism symbolizes a usurper king who falsely claims to be Vasudeva, leads armies with anger, and is misled by flattery, ultimately challenging Krishna while also showcasing a mischievous childhood behavior.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A boy born of a Shudra who, during his childhood, exhibited mischievous behavior, such as stealing a friend's book.[1]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A puny-minded king who falsely claims the title of Vasudeva and challenges Krishna to a fight.[2]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A character who assumes the insignia and style of Krishna and is flattered by ignorant people into believing he is the Vasudeva.[3]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) With Paundraka at the rear of the army.[4] (2) Paundraka is a character filled with anger who leads two Akshauhinis.[5]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) A king who claims to be the real Vasudeva and suggests performing the Naramedha Yajna.[6]