Shloka 37
Jarāsandha–Bhīma Niyuddha-prastāvaḥ
Commencement of the Regulated Duel
तांस्त्वपूर्वेण वेषेण दृष्टवा स नृपसत्तम: । उपतस्थे जरासंधो विस्मितश्चाभवत् तदा,उन तीनोंको अपूर्व वेषमें देखकर नृपश्रेष्ठ जरासंधको बड़ा विस्मय हुआ। वह उनके पास गया
tāṁs tv apūrveṇa veṣeṇa dṛṣṭvā sa nṛpasattamaḥ | upatasthe jarāsandho vismitaś cābhavat tadā ||
Seeing those three in an unfamiliar disguise, Jarāsandha—the foremost of kings—was struck with astonishment. He then approached them and stood before them, still amazed.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how outward appearance can conceal purpose, and how a ruler’s discernment is tested when confronted with the unexpected; it also reflects the ethical tension between strategic concealment and open conduct in royal affairs.
Jarāsandha sees three men in an unusual disguise, becomes surprised, and approaches them—setting the stage for their intended engagement with him (the visitors’ identities and mission are implied but not stated in this verse).