Shloka 18
Akrūra in Hastināpura: Kuntī’s Lament and Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s Moral Instruction
धर्मेण पालयन्नुर्वीं प्रजा: शीलेन रञ्जयन् । वर्तमान: सम: स्वेषु श्रेय: कीर्तिमवाप्स्यसि ॥ १८ ॥
dharmeṇa pālayann urvīṁ prajāḥ śīlena rañjayan vartamānaḥ samaḥ sveṣu śreyaḥ kīrtim avāpsyasi
By protecting the earth in accordance with dharma, delighting the citizens by your noble character, and dealing equally with all your relatives, you will surely attain true welfare and lasting fame.
Akrūra told Dhṛtarāṣṭra that even though he had usurped the throne, if he now ruled according to the principles of dharma and behaved properly, he could be successful.
FAQs
This verse teaches that a ruler should protect the land according to dharma, win the hearts of citizens through personal virtue, and remain impartial—thereby gaining true welfare and enduring fame.
In this section, Kṛṣṇa gives guidance on proper conduct and governance, emphasizing dharmic rule, moral character, and impartiality as the foundation of a stable and respected reign.
Lead with integrity, serve and protect those under your care, avoid favoritism, and let ethical principles—not ego or bias—guide decisions; reputation and real success follow naturally.