Shloka 19
दमयन्त्याः व्याकुलता — स्वयंवरसंनिपातः — देवदूतयाचनम्
Damayantī’s Distress, Proclamation of the Svayaṃvara, and the Gods’ Request
समागम्य वृतस्तत्र पाण्डवैर्मधुसूदन: । सारथ्ये फाल्गुनस्याजौ तथेत्याह च तान् हरि:,पाण्डवोंने मिलकर मधुसूदन श्रीकृष्णको युद्धमें अर्जुनका सारथि होनेके लिये वरण किया और श्रीहरिने “तथास्तु' कहकर उनका अनुरोध स्वीकार कर लिया
samāgamya vṛtas tatra pāṇḍavair madhusūdanaḥ | sārathye phālgunas yājau tathety āha ca tān hariḥ ||
Having assembled there, the Pāṇḍavas chose Madhusūdana (Śrī Kṛṣṇa) to serve as Phālguna’s charioteer in battle; and Hari, saying “So be it,” accepted their request. The episode underscores voluntary service offered for a righteous cause and the ethical weight of choosing one’s role in war—guidance and restraint rather than mere aggression.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
Even within the context of war, dharmic action involves conscious choice of one’s duty and the acceptance of responsibility. Kṛṣṇa’s consent to be a charioteer highlights leadership through guidance and selfless service rather than pursuit of personal power.
The Pāṇḍavas approach Kṛṣṇa and request that he take the role of Arjuna’s charioteer in battle. Kṛṣṇa agrees, responding with “tathāstu,” thereby formalizing his supportive role in their martial undertaking.