Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 16
Ikṣvāku Dynasty: Vikukṣi’s Offense, Purañjaya’s Victory, Māndhātā’s Birth, and Saubhari’s Fall and Renunciation
स सन्नद्धो धनुर्दिव्यमादाय विशिखाञ्छितान् । स्तूयमानस्तमारुह्य युयुत्सु: ककुदि स्थित: ॥ १५ ॥ तेजसाप्यायितो विष्णो: पुरुषस्य महात्मन: । प्रतीच्यां दिशि दैत्यानां न्यरुणत् त्रिदशै: पुरम् ॥ १६ ॥
sa sannaddho dhanur divyam ādāya viśikhāñ chitān stūyamānas tam āruhya yuyutsuḥ kakudi sthitaḥ
Well protected by armor and desiring to fight, Purañjaya took up a transcendental bow and very sharp arrows, and, while being highly praised by the demigods, he got up on the back of the bull [Indra] and sat on its hump. Thus he is known as Kakutstha. Being empowered by Lord Viṣṇu, who is the Supersoul and the Supreme Person, Purañjaya sat on the great bull and is therefore known as Indravāha. Surrounded by the demigods, he attacked the residence of the demons in the west.
FAQs
This verse depicts the ideal readiness of a righteous warrior—fully equipped, resolute, and prepared to fight for protection of cosmic order, while being supported by the devas.
Because Purūrava was taking up the task of confronting the enemies of the devas; their praise acknowledges his valor and righteous intent in defending dharma.
Do your duty with discipline—prepare your tools and mind, accept encouragement humbly, and act decisively for a higher purpose rather than ego.