Shloka 16
The Priyavrata Dynasty Continues: Sumati’s Line and the Glorification of Mahārāja Gaya
तत्रायं श्लोक:— प्रैयव्रतं वंशमिमं विरजश्चरमोद्भव: । अकरोदत्यलं कीर्त्या विष्णु: सुरगणं यथा ॥ १६ ॥
tatrāyaṁ ślokaḥ — praiyavrataṁ vaṁśam imaṁ virajaś caramodbhavaḥ akarod aty-alaṁ kīrtyā viṣṇuḥ sura-gaṇaṁ yathā
There is a celebrated verse about King Viraja: “Born as the last descendant of Priyavrata’s dynasty, Viraja adorned that line with incomparable fame, just as Lord Viṣṇu, by His transcendental potency, adorns and blesses the hosts of demigods.”
Within a garden, a flowering tree attains a good reputation because of its fragrant flowers. Similarly, if there is a famous man in a family, he is compared to a fragrant flower in a forest. Because of him, an entire family can become famous in history. Because Lord Kṛṣṇa took birth in the Yadu dynasty, the Yadu dynasty and the Yādavas have remained famous for all time. Because of King Viraja’s appearance, the family of Mahārāja Priyavrata has remained famous for all time.
FAQs
This verse says that Viraja made Priyavrata’s lineage highly illustrious by his fame, showing how virtuous descendants can elevate an entire dynasty.
Because the devas shine by His power and protection; similarly, a great person’s qualities and achievements can make an entire family line renowned.
Seek lasting honor through dharma and devotion—character and service create a reputation that uplifts one’s family and community, rather than temporary worldly acclaim.