Shloka 24
Bhīmasena’s Digvijaya and Tribute Return (भीमस्य दिग्विजयः धननिवेदनं च)
प्रागुत्तरां दिशं ये च वसन्त्याश्रित्य दस्यव: । निवसन्ति वने ये च तान् सर्वानजयत् प्रभु:,ईशान कोणका आश्रय ले जो लुटेरे या डाकू वनमें निवास करते थे, उन सबको शक्तिशाली धनंजयने जीतकर वशमें कर लिया
prāguttarāṃ diśaṃ ye ca vasanty āśritya dasyavaḥ | nivasanti vane ye ca tān sarvān ajayat prabhuḥ ||
Mereka para perampok yang berlindung di arah timur‑laut, dan mereka yang tinggal di rimba—atas semuanya itu Dhanañjaya, sang tuan yang perkasa, menang; menaklukkan dan menundukkan mereka di bawah kendalinya.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
A ruler’s duty includes protecting society by restraining those who live by plunder. Subduing banditry is presented as restoring dharmic order and safety, not merely expanding power.
During Arjuna’s campaign of conquest, he defeats and brings under control bands of marauders living in the north‑eastern regions and in forests, clearing threats to settled communities and royal authority.