Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 26
The Appearance and Coronation of King Pṛthu (Pṛthu-avatāra) and His Humble Refusal of Premature Praise
वयं त्वविदिता लोके सूताद्यापि वरीमभि: । कर्मभि: कथमात्मानं गापयिष्याम बालवत् ॥ २६ ॥
vayaṁ tv aviditā loke sūtādyāpi varīmabhiḥ karmabhiḥ katham ātmānaṁ gāpayiṣyāma bālavat
King Pṛthu continued: My dear devotees, headed by the sūta, just now I am not very famous for my personal activities because I have not done anything praiseworthy you could glorify. Therefore how could I engage you in praising my activities exactly like children?
Thus end the Bhaktivedanta purports of the Fourth Canto, Fifteenth Chapter, of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, entitled “King Pṛthu’s Appearance and Coronation.”
FAQs
This verse shows King Pṛthu reflecting that mere desire for praise is childish; real renown should arise from superior, dharmic deeds rather than ego-driven self-promotion.
In the narrative, Pṛthu addresses Sūta and those around him while considering how a ruler’s lasting reputation is established—through exemplary action—while also acknowledging the immaturity of craving praise.
Focus on meaningful service and integrity; let recognition be a byproduct of consistent good work, and watch for the “childlike” impulse to seek validation.