Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 24
Ūṣā-Haraṇa, Bāṇāsura’s Pride, and Aniruddha’s Capture
Prelude to Hari–Śaṅkara Conflict
परार्ध्यवास:स्रग्गन्धधूपदीपासनादिभि: । पानभोजनभक्ष्यैश्च वाक्यै: शुश्रूषणार्चित: ॥ २३ ॥ गूढ: कन्यापुरे शश्वत्प्रवृद्धस्नेहया तया । नाहर्गणान् स बुबुधे ऊषयापहृतेन्द्रिय: ॥ २४ ॥
parārdhya-vāsaḥ-srag-gandha- dhūpa-dīpāsanādibhiḥ pāna-bhojana-bhakṣyaiś ca vākyaiḥ śuśrūṣaṇārcitaḥ
Ūṣā worshiped Aniruddha with faithful service, offering Him priceless garments, along with garlands, fragrances, incense, lamps, sitting places and so on. She also offered Him beverages, all types of food, and sweet words. As He thus remained hidden in the young ladies’ quarters, Aniruddha did not notice the passing of the days, for His senses were captivated by Ūṣā, whose affection for Him ever increased.
FAQs
This verse describes honoring someone through śuśrūṣaṇa—attentive service—offering comforts like garments, garlands, food, and kind words, showing how affection expresses itself through practical care.
In the narrative, Ūṣā becomes deeply attached to Aniruddha and keeps him hidden while lovingly serving him with luxuries and gentle speech.
Offer genuine care through respectful speech, hospitality, and thoughtful service—turning affection into responsible, uplifting actions rather than mere emotion.