Shloka 6
Damayantī’s Lament, Serpent-Seizure, Rescue by the Hunter, and the Curse
ततस्ते मन्त्रिण: सर्वे विज्ञाय नलशासनम् । अपि नो भागधेयं स्यादित्युक्त्वा नलमाव्रजन्
tataste mantriṇaḥ sarve vijñāya nalaśāsanam | api no bhāgadheyaṃ syād ity uktvā nalam āvrajan ||
Then all his ministers, having understood King Nala’s command, went to Nala and said, “May there be a share for us as well.” The verse highlights the court’s dependence on royal direction and the ethical expectation that service and loyalty be met with rightful provision rather than abandonment.
बृहृदश्चव उवाच
Educational Q&A
A ruler’s command affects not only himself but also those who serve the kingdom; dharma implies fair recognition and provision (bhāgadheya) for loyal service, and responsible governance includes care for dependents.
After learning Nala’s directive, all the ministers approach him and request that they too receive their due share—indicating concern for their livelihood and their continued place within the royal order.