Shloka 5
दमयन्ती–बाहुकसंवादः
Damayantī’s Dialogue with Bāhuka; Recognition and Disclosure
ततः समाहिता गत्वा दूती बाहुकमब्रवीत् । दमयन्त्यपि कल्याणी प्रासादस्था हरुपैक्षत,तब वह दूती बड़ी सावधानीसे वहाँ जाकर बाहुकसे वार्तालाप करने लगी और कल्याणी दमयन्ती भी महलमें उसके लौटनेकी प्रतीक्षामें बैठी रही
tataḥ samāhitā gatvā dūtī bāhukam abravīt | damayantī api kalyāṇī prāsādasthā harūpekṣata ||
Then the messenger-woman, composed and attentive, went and spoke to Bāhuka. Meanwhile the noble Damayantī, seated within the palace, waited expectantly for her return—restraining her feelings and placing hope in the careful conduct of her envoy.
बृहदश्चव उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights ethical restraint and mindful speech: the envoy proceeds with composure (samāhitā), suggesting that delicate matters—especially those involving trust, identity, and reunion—should be handled with steadiness, discretion, and responsibility.
A female messenger goes carefully to speak with Bāhuka (Nala in disguise). At the same time Damayantī remains in the palace, waiting for the messenger’s return, indicating her anxious hope and the cautious unfolding of recognition and reunion.