Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 31
Pṛthu Mahārāja Milks the Earth (Bhūmi-dugdha) and Organizes Human Settlement
ग्रामान् पुर: पत्तनानि दुर्गाणि विविधानि च । घोषान् व्रजान् सशिबिरानाकरान् खेटखर्वटान् ॥ ३१ ॥
grāmān puraḥ pattanāni durgāṇi vividhāni ca ghoṣān vrajān sa-śibirān ākarān kheṭa-kharvaṭān
ग्रामान् पुरः पत्तनानि दुर्गाणि विविधानि च । घोषान् व्रजान् सशिबिरान् आकरान् खेटखर्वटान् च स्थापयामास।
FAQs
This verse describes how King Pṛthu systematically organized all forms of human settlement—villages, towns, forts, pastoral communities, camps, and resource centers—showing that dharmic rule includes practical, well-planned social and economic development.
In the narrative, Pṛthu is the exemplary righteous king; after restoring prosperity, he arranges orderly habitation and protection for citizens, reflecting rajadharma—ensuring security, livelihood, and stability across the kingdom.
Create stability through responsible organization: protect essentials, plan communities thoughtfully, support livelihoods (including agriculture and industry), and ensure resources are used ethically for the welfare of all.