Shloka 24
Bhīmasena’s Digvijaya and Tribute Return (भीमस्य दिग्विजयः धननिवेदनं च)
प्रागुत्तरां दिशं ये च वसन्त्याश्रित्य दस्यव: । निवसन्ति वने ये च तान् सर्वानजयत् प्रभु:,ईशान कोणका आश्रय ले जो लुटेरे या डाकू वनमें निवास करते थे, उन सबको शक्तिशाली धनंजयने जीतकर वशमें कर लिया
prāguttarāṃ diśaṃ ye ca vasanty āśritya dasyavaḥ | nivasanti vane ye ca tān sarvān ajayat prabhuḥ ||
Vaiśampāyana said: Those marauders who had taken refuge in the north‑eastern quarter, and those who dwelt in the forests—over all of them the mighty lord (Dhanañjaya, Arjuna) prevailed, conquering and bringing them under control. Thus is Arjuna’s campaign cast as the restoration of order, by subduing predatory bands that disturb lawful life and security.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
A ruler’s duty includes protecting society by restraining those who live by plunder. Subduing banditry is presented as restoring dharmic order and safety, not merely expanding power.
During Arjuna’s campaign of conquest, he defeats and brings under control bands of marauders living in the north‑eastern regions and in forests, clearing threats to settled communities and royal authority.