Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 21
The Appearance and Coronation of King Pṛthu (Pṛthu-avatāra) and His Humble Refusal of Premature Praise
स्तावकांस्तानभिप्रेत्य पृथुर्वैन्य: प्रतापवान् । मेघनिर्ह्रादया वाचा प्रहसन्निदमब्रवीत् ॥ २१ ॥
stāvakāṁs tān abhipretya pṛthur vainyaḥ pratāpavān megha-nirhrādayā vācā prahasann idam abravīt
उन स्तुति करने वालों को देखकर प्रतापी वेनपुत्र राजा पृथु उन्हें प्रसन्न करने हेतु मुस्कुराए और मेघ-गर्जना जैसी गंभीर वाणी में इस प्रकार बोले।
FAQs
This verse shows King Pṛthu first discerning the intent behind praise and then responding calmly and thoughtfully—suggesting humility, discernment, and duty-centered leadership rather than vanity.
The comparison emphasizes his majesty and commanding presence as a divinely empowered ruler, while he remains composed and smiling—strength joined with self-control.
Before reacting to compliments or criticism, understand the motive and context; then respond with steadiness—combining confidence with humility and clarity in speech.