Shloka 15
Śakuntalā’s Satya-Discourse and the Recognition of Bharata (शकुन्तला–सत्योपदेशः; भरतप्रतिग्रहः)
सुदूरमनुजग्मुस्तं पौरजानपदास्तथा । न्यवर्तन्त ततः पश्चादनुज्ञाता नृपेण ह,नगर और जनपदके लोग बहुत दूरतक उनके पीछे-पीछे गये। फिर महाराजकी आज्ञा होनेपर लौट आये
sudūram anujagmus taṃ paurajānapadās tathā | nyavartanta tataḥ paścād anujñātā nṛpeṇa ha ||
The townspeople and the folk of the countryside followed him for a very long distance. Thereafter, having received the king’s permission, they turned back—showing both their deep attachment and their disciplined respect for royal command.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a dharmic balance: the people’s affection and solidarity are expressed by following far, yet they also uphold social order by returning when the king grants leave—showing respect for rightful authority and communal discipline.
As someone important departs, the city and countryside inhabitants accompany him a long way. When the king gives them permission, they stop accompanying and return home.