Shloka 17
Haryaśva’s Agreement with Gālava and the Birth of Vasumanā
Nārada’s narration
गते पतगराजे तु गालव: सह कनन््यया । चिन्तयान: क्षमं दाने राज्ञां वै शुल्कतोडगमत्
gate patagarāje tu gālavaḥ saha kanyayā | cintayānaḥ kṣamaṃ dāne rājñāṃ vai śulkatoḍaṃ jagāmat |
Cuando el rey de las aves hubo partido, Gálava, acompañado por la doncella, reflexionó sobre qué sería aceptable recibir como dádiva de los reyes. Buscando un medio lícito y practicable para satisfacer el precio nupcial exigido, se dirigió a Śulkatoḍa, decidido a obtener la riqueza requerida sin quebrantar la rectitud.
नारद उवाच
Educational Q&A
Before acting, one should deliberate on what is kṣama—ethically proper and practically feasible—especially in matters of wealth, obligations, and social customs. The verse highlights conscientious decision-making so that a vow or duty is fulfilled without impropriety.
After the departure of the ‘king of birds’ (Garuḍa), Gālava continues his quest with the maiden. He considers how kings can rightly provide the required payment (śulka) and then goes to a figure/place named Śulkatoḍa to pursue the means of obtaining it.