Akrūra in Hastināpura: Kuntī’s Lament and Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s Moral Instruction
तेज ओजो बलं वीर्यं प्रश्रयादींश्च सद्गुणान् । प्रजानुरागं पार्थेषु न सहद्भिश्चिकीर्षितम् ॥ ५ ॥ कृतं च धार्तराष्ट्रैर्यद् गरदानाद्यपेशलम् । आचख्यौ सर्वमेवास्मै पृथा विदुर एव च ॥ ६ ॥
teja ojo balaṁ vīryaṁ praśrayādīṁś ca sad-guṇān prajānurāgaṁ pārtheṣu na sahadbhiś cikīṛṣitam
Kuntī and Vidura described to Akrūra in detail the evil intentions of Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s sons, who could not tolerate the great qualities of Kuntī’s sons — such as their powerful influence, military skill, physical strength, bravery and humility — or the intense affection the citizens had for them. Kuntī and Vidura also told Akrūra about how the sons of Dhṛtarāṣṭra had tried to poison the Pāṇḍavas and carry out other such plots.
This verse highlights their radiance, vigor, strength, valor, humility and other virtues, and notes that the common people felt deep affection for them.
They informed him of the intolerant hostility and cruel acts of the Dhārtarāṣṭras—such as attempts to poison—so Krishna’s messenger would fully understand the danger and injustice faced by the Pāṇḍavas.
Cultivate genuine virtues like humility and strength, accept that envy may arise in others, and respond by seeking truthful counsel and protecting dharma rather than retaliating with cruelty.