Shloka 18
Adhyāya 73: Damayantī’s Investigation of Bāhuka
Keśinī’s Observations
ततो<वतीर्य वार्ष्णेयो बाहुकश्व रथोत्तमात् । हयांस्तानवमुच्याथ स्थापयामास वै रथम्,तदनन्तर वार्ष्णेय और बाहुकने उस उत्तम रथसे उतरकर घोड़े खोल दिये और रथको एक जगह खड़ा कर दिया
tato ’vatīrya vārṣṇeyo bāhukaś ca rathottamāt | hayāṁs tān avamucyātha sthāpayāmāsa vai ratham ||
Then Vārṣṇeya and Bāhuka descended from that excellent chariot. Unyoking the horses, they set the chariot firmly in one place—careful, disciplined preparation amid a tense journey.
बृहदश्चव उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights practical dharma: orderly, responsible action (unyoking and securing the chariot) as a form of self-control and foresight. Even routine tasks, done properly, support safety and right conduct during uncertain circumstances.
Bṛhadaśva narrates that Vārṣṇeya and Bāhuka get down from an excellent chariot, unyoke the horses, and park the chariot securely—signaling a pause or preparation for the next stage of their undertaking.