हयमेध-यज्ञोपक्रमः — Commencement of the Aśvamedha Preparations
ते च कर्मान्तिकास्सर्वे वसिष्ठाय च धीमते।सर्वं निवेदयन्ति स्म यज्ञे यदुपकल्पितम्।।1.13.29।।
svayam eva hi dharmātmā prayayau muniśāsanāt |
sumantras tvarito bhūtvā samānetuṃ mahīkṣitaḥ || 1.13.28 ||
Indeed, the righteous Sumantra himself set out quickly, in accordance with the sage’s command, to escort the kings.
All the workers reported to the wise sage, Vasishta about the tasks completed for the sacrifice.
Dharma is obedience to wise guidance and personal responsibility: Sumantra does not merely delegate; he participates directly to ensure the righteous task succeeds.
Beyond sending emissaries, Sumantra himself departs swiftly to bring the invited rulers.
Diligence rooted in dharma—prompt action, humility before the sage’s command, and reliability in state service.