Shloka 1.32.19
कुशवंशवर्णनम् — The Line of Kuśa and the Disfigurement of Kuśanābha’s Daughters by Vāyu
अन्तश्चरसि भूतानां सर्वेषां त्वं सुरोत्तम ।प्रभावज्ञा: स्म ते सर्वा: किमस्मानवमन्यसे।।।।
tasya tad vacanaṃ śrutvā vāyor akliṣṭakarmaṇaḥ |
apahāsya tato vākyaṃ kanyāśatam athābravīt || 1.32.18 ||
Hearing those words of Vāyu, whose deeds are unwearied, the hundred maidens mocked his speech and then replied.
"O best among devatas! you move within all living beings, we feel your impact. Why do you insult us?
The beginning of resistance to unrighteous pressure: dharma includes protecting one’s integrity and refusing coercive or improper proposals, even when made by a powerful being.
After Vāyu’s proposal and promises, the maidens respond collectively, first dismissing his attempt.
Courage and solidarity—answering as a group—along with firmness in guarding chastity and rightful conduct.