Shloka 1
Kṛṣṇa Slays Kuvalayāpīḍa and Enters Kaṁsa’s Wrestling Arena
श्रीशुक उवाच अथ कृष्णश्च रामश्च कृतशौचौ परन्तप । मल्लदुन्दुभिनिर्घोषं श्रुत्वा द्रष्टुमुपेयतु: ॥ १ ॥
śrī-śuka uvāca atha kṛṣṇaś ca rāmaś ca kṛta-śaucau parantapa malla-dundubhi-nirghoṣaṁ śrutvā draṣṭum upeyatuḥ
Śukadeva Gosvāmī said: O chastiser of enemies, Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma, having completed the rites of purification, heard the kettledrums resounding in the wrestling arena and went there to see.
Śrīla Śrīdhara Svāmī explains the words kṛta-śaucau, “having executed all necessary purification,” as follows: “Two days previously, Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma had executed Their purification, Their relief from offense [by performing heroic deeds]. The Lords reasoned: ‘Even after We have made Our power known by breaking the bow and by performing other feats, Our parents have still not secured freedom. Kaṁsa is again trying to kill them. Therefore, although he is Our maternal uncle, it will not be wrong for Us to kill him.’ They assured Their offenselessness by this reasoning.”
FAQs
In 10.43.1, Śukadeva describes Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma hearing the wrestlers’ drums and going to the arena to witness the event, initiating the unfolding of Kaṁsa’s final confrontation.
It highlights their observance of proper conduct and purity before public engagement, showing that divine līlā also models dharmic discipline.
It teaches preparedness and inner cleanliness—begin spiritual or important duties with a deliberate moment of purification, focus, and respect for dharma.