Shloka 54
Kurukṣetra Pilgrimage: Sages Praise Kṛṣṇa; Vasudeva Inquires on Karma; Viṣṇu-yajña Performed
स्नातोऽलङ्कारवासांसि वन्दिभ्योऽदात्तथा स्त्रिय: । तत: स्वलङ्कृतो वर्णानाश्वभ्योऽन्नेन पूजयत् ॥ ५४ ॥
snāto ’laṅkāra-vāsāṁsi vandibhyo ’dāt tathā striyaḥ tataḥ sv-alaṅkṛto varṇān ā-śvabhyo ’nnena pūjayat
After his sacred bath, Vasudeva and his wives gave the jewelry and garments they were wearing to the vandi reciters. Then, dressed anew and adorned, he honored all people—down to the dogs—by feeding everyone.
FAQs
This verse highlights a dharmic, devotional culture: after purification, one gives charity (ornaments and clothing) and honors all—people of every varṇa and even animals—through respectful offerings like food.
In the ceremonial setting described in Canto 10, Chapter 84, gifting to bards (who bless and recite praises) and to women reflects traditional dāna and hospitality practices accompanying auspicious gatherings and rites.
Begin important activities with cleanliness and a prayerful mood, then practice generosity—support spiritual speakers/servants, care for family and community, and extend compassion to animals by offering nourishment and protection.