Shloka 14
अध्याय १८४ — भैक्षविभागः, शयनविधानम्, धृष्टद्युम्नस्य निवेदनम्
Alms Distribution, Night Lodging, and Dhṛṣṭadyumna’s Report
ब्राह्मणाश्न महाभागा देशेभ्य: समुपागमन् । ततोड<र्चिता राजगणा द्रुपदेन महात्मना,भिन्न-भिन्न देशोंसे कितने ही महाभाग ब्राह्मणोंने भी पदार्पण किया था। महामना राजा द्रपदने (वहाँ पधारे हुए) नरपतियोंका भलीभाँति स्वागत-सत्कार एवं सेवा-पूजा की। तत्पश्चात् वे सभी नरेश स्वयंवर देखनेकी इच्छासे वहाँ रखे हुए मंचोंपर बैठे। उस नगरके समस्त निवासी भी यथास्थान आकर बैठ गये। उन सबका कोलाहल क्षुब्ध हुए समुद्रके भयंकर गर्जनके समान सुनायी पड़ता था
Vaiśampāyana uvāca: brāhmaṇāś ca mahābhāgā deśebhyaḥ samupāgaman | tato 'rcitā rājagaṇā drupadena mahātmanā ||
Vaiśampāyana said: Auspicious and eminent brāhmaṇas also arrived from many regions. Then the gathered kings were duly honored by the great-souled Drupada with fitting hospitality and reverent service. (Thereafter, with the desire to witness the svayaṃvara, the rulers took their seats on the prepared platforms, and the townspeople too assembled in their places, their tumult sounding like the roar of a storm-tossed sea.)
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharmic kingship through proper reception of guests—especially learned brāhmaṇas and visiting rulers—showing that public ceremonies should be grounded in respect, generosity, and orderly hospitality.
As the svayaṃvara approaches, brāhmaṇas from many lands and numerous kings arrive. King Drupada formally honors and hosts them, setting the stage for the assembled audience to witness the forthcoming ceremony.