Shloka 9
दमयन्ती–बाहुकसंवादः
Damayantī’s Dialogue with Bāhuka; Recognition and Disclosure
श्र॒ुत्वैतत् प्रस्थितो राजा शतयोजनयायिश्रि: । हयैर्वातजवैर्मुख्यैरहमस्य च सारथि:,यह सुनकर राजा हवाके समान वेगवाले और सौ योजनतक दौड़नेवाले अच्छे घोड़ोंसे जुते हुए रथपर सवार हो विदर्भदेशके लिये प्रस्थित हो गये। इस यात्रामें मैं ही इनका सारथि था
śrutvैतat prasthito rājā śatayojanayāyiśriḥ | hayair vātajavair mukhyair aham asya ca sārathiḥ ||
Hearing this, the king set out at once, mounting a chariot yoked with excellent horses swift as the wind and famed for running a hundred yojanas. On that journey, I myself served as his charioteer. The episode underscores prompt, disciplined action after receiving counsel, and the ethical weight of loyal service performed without self-importance.
बाहुक उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharma through prompt action and faithful service: a ruler acts decisively after hearing counsel, while the attendant (Bāhuka) fulfills his duty as charioteer with steadiness and humility.
After hearing the relevant message, the king departs for Vidarbha in a chariot drawn by elite, wind-fast horses reputed to cover a hundred yojanas; Bāhuka states that he was the king’s charioteer on this journey.