Originally posted by: FlauntPessimism
This is a new age discussion that has come up, since characteristics of Gokul Krishna and Krishna in Mahabharat is very different. All the more we never hear of Nand or Yashoda in later time, its highly doubtful that Krishna was so self centered that he didn't ever visit his adoptive parents (forget bringing them to his new place)
Few also say Vasudev and Vrishni heroes (the clan of Krishna) were a different segment which was worshipped and later got embedded into Narayana and then Vaishanava cult, especially since Vrishni heroes (especially Vasudeva and Samkarshan) were all given equal respect everywhere, unlike Krishna-Balarama where Krishna is worshipped way more.
If you ask me, I don't think this is possible or true, they are essentially the same people, just that different aspects and characteristics are showcased in each of the segments. Gokul is about his childhood innocence and Mathura is about his strength and decision making while Dwarika & Mahabharat focuses more on his political acumen, since this is a recorded version (itihasa-not necessarily history) hence only the features necessary to the flow is mentioned at any place