Shloka 1.13.11

हयमेध-यज्ञोपक्रमः — Commencement of the Aśvamedha Preparations

Devanagari script

तथा पौरजनस्यापि कर्तव्या बहुविस्तरा:।आवासा बहुभक्ष्या वै सर्वकामैरुपस्थिता:।।1.13.11।।

Transliteration

tathā paurajanasya 'pi kartavyā bahuvistarāḥ | āvāsā bahubhakṣyā vai sarvakāmair upasthitāḥ ||

Translation

Likewise, for townspeople and visitors, spacious accommodations were to be made—provided with plentiful food and supplied with every comfort and enjoyment.

Context

In the same manner let widely spread residential accommodation be furnished with many items of food and all kinds of entertainment be provided for people from other lands.

Characters & Entities

• paurajana (townspeople/citizens)
• āvāsa (accommodation)
• hospitality provisions

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Rāja-dharma as public welfare: the king’s sacred enterprise must also serve society through care, order, and generous provision for all participants.

What is the narrative situation?

The preparations extend beyond priests to the wider public—arrangements are made for lodging, food, and comforts for attendees.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Inclusiveness and stewardship—ensuring that collective religious activity does not neglect the needs of ordinary people.