Shloka 4
Arjuna’s Himalayan Departure and the Commencement of Severe Tapas
Janamejaya’s Inquiry; Sages Approach Śiva
देव्या सहोमया श्रीमान् समानव्रतवेषया । नानावेषधरै्ष्टेर्भूतिरनुगतस्तदा,उनके साथ भगवती उमा भी थीं, जिनका व्रत और वेष भी उन्हींके समान था। अनेक प्रकारके वेष धारण किये भूतगण भी प्रसन्नतापूर्वक उनके पीछे हो लिये थे। इस प्रकार किरातवेषमें छिपे हुए श्रीमान् शिव सहसों स्त्रियोंसे घिरकर बड़ी शोभा पा रहे थे। भरतवंशी राजन! उस समय वह प्रदेश उन सबके चलने-फिरनेसे अत्यन्त सुशोभित हो रहा था
vaiśampāyana uvāca | devyā sahomayā śrīmān samanavrataveṣayā | nānāveṣadharair bhūtair anugatas tadā |
Vaiśampāyana said: The illustrious Lord, accompanied by the goddess Umā—whose observance and attire matched his—moved on then, followed gladly by hosts of bhūtas wearing many different disguises. Thus Śiva, concealed in the guise of a Kirāta, appeared splendid, surrounded by numerous women; and, O descendant of Bharata, that region became exceedingly beautiful with the movement of that entire retinue.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a recurring Mahābhārata motif: the divine may appear in humble or concealed forms, and true recognition depends on inner discernment rather than outward dress. It also underscores harmony in divine partnership—Umā’s matching vow and attire signify shared purpose and disciplined companionship.
Vaiśampāyana describes Śiva moving through the region in the disguise of a Kirāta (mountain hunter), accompanied by Umā and followed by bhūtas in varied disguises. Their lively procession beautifies the landscape and sets the scene for the ensuing encounter.