Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 14
Rantideva’s Supreme Charity and the Hastī Lineage
Hastināpura and Pañcāla Origins
इति प्रभाष्य पानीयं म्रियमाण: पिपासया । पुल्कसायाददाद्धीरो निसर्गकरुणो नृप: ॥ १४ ॥
iti prabhāṣya pānīyaṁ mriyamāṇaḥ pipāsayā pulkasāyādadād dhīro nisarga-karuṇo nṛpaḥ
ಇಂತೆಂದು ಹೇಳಿ, ಸ್ವಭಾವತಃ ಕರುಣಾಮಯನೂ ಧೀರನೂ ಆದ ರಂತಿದೇವ ರಾಜನು, ದಾಹದಿಂದ ಮರಣಾಸನ್ನನಾಗಿದ್ದರೂ, ಸಂಕುಚವಿಲ್ಲದೆ ತನ್ನ ನೀರನ್ನು ಪುಲ್ಕಸ (ಚಾಂಡಾಲ) ಗೆ ನೀಡಿದನು.
FAQs
This verse praises a king who, even while dying of thirst, gives his own water to an outcaste—showing that true dharma includes natural mercy beyond social distinctions.
Because he was dhīra (steadfast) and nisarga-karuṇa (innately compassionate), choosing mercy and righteousness over bodily survival.
Practice selfless help—share resources, time, or care with those in need, even when it is inconvenient—cultivating compassion as a daily spiritual discipline.