Shloka 23
Kṛṣṇasya asāṃnidhya-kāraṇaṃ — Śālva–Soubha-vṛttāntaḥ
Why Kṛṣṇa was absent; the Śālva and Saubha account
एवं सुविहिता राजन् द्वारका भूरिदक्षिणा । आहुकेन सुगुप्ता च राज्ञा राजीवलोचन,कमलनयन राजन! जिसमें बहुत-से दक्ष मनुष्य निवास करते थे उस द्वारकानगरीकी रक्षाके लिये इस प्रकारकी व्यवस्था की गयी थी। वह राजा उग्रसेनके द्वारा भलीभाँति सुरक्षित थी
evaṁ suvihitā rājan dvārakā bhūridakṣiṇā | āhukena sugupṭā ca rājñā rājīvalocana ||
O King, thus was Dvārakā—rich in gifts and resources and inhabited by many capable men—carefully organized for its protection. And, O lotus-eyed ruler, it was well-guarded by King Āhuka (Ugrasena), ensuring the city’s security through proper governance and vigilant oversight.
वायुदेव उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights rājadharma: a city prospers when its administration is well-ordered (suvihitā) and its security is responsibly maintained (suguptā). Prosperity and generosity (bhūridakṣiṇā) are presented as outcomes supported by vigilant, lawful governance.
Vāyudeva describes how Dvārakā was systematically arranged for defense and how it remained securely protected under King Āhuka/Ugrasena, emphasizing the city’s disciplined organization and strong guardianship.