Shloka 30
Paugaṇḍa Cowherding, Tālavana, the Slaying of Dhenukāsura, and Revival from Poisoned Yamunā Water
समेत्य तरसा प्रत्यग् द्वाभ्यां पद्भ्यां बलं बली । निहत्योरसि काशब्दं मुञ्चन् पर्यसरत् खल: ॥ ३० ॥
sametya tarasā pratyag dvābhyāṁ padbhyāṁ balaṁ balī nihatyorasi kā-śabdaṁ muñcan paryasarat khalaḥ
Asura yang gagah itu meluru mendekati Sri Baladeva lalu menghentam dada Baginda dengan kedua kuku kaki belakangnya; kemudian ia berlari berputar sambil meringkik kuat.
FAQs
In this episode, Dhenukāsura—appearing as a powerful ass—attacks Balarāma, but his aggression ultimately leads to his defeat, clearing the way for the Lord’s friends and devotees to enjoy Vṛndāvana without fear.
As an asura in animal form, Dhenukāsura uses brute force and deceitful tactics; the verse highlights his violent attempt to harm Balarāma before fleeing, setting up the demon’s impending punishment.
Opposition may come suddenly and aggressively, but steadiness in dharma and reliance on the Lord’s protection (and the strength of devotion) enables one to remain fearless and continue on the spiritual path.