Shloka 20
शकुनेः पुत्रेण सह आश्वमेधाश्वविषयः संघर्षः — Arjuna’s restrained engagement with Śakuni’s son during the horse-escort
तेषामभ्यागतानां च स राजा कुरुवर्थन: । व्यादिदेशान्नपानानि शप्याश्नाप्पतिमानुषा:
teṣām abhyāgatānāṁ ca sa rājā kuruvardhanaḥ | vyādideśānna-pānāni śayyāś cāpy atimānuṣāḥ ||
Vaiśampāyana said: When those guests arrived, King Yudhiṣṭhira—who fostered the prosperity of the Kuru line—ordered that food and drink be served, and that extraordinary, more-than-human beds and comforts be arranged for them.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores atithi-dharma (the duty of hospitality): a righteous king honors arriving guests with generous provisions and respectful comfort, reflecting ethical governance and compassion.
As new guests arrive, Yudhiṣṭhira orders immediate arrangements—food, drink, and exceptional resting accommodations—demonstrating royal responsibility and courteous reception.