Kṛṣṇa Swallows the Forest Fire (Dāvāgni-līlā) and Restores the Herd
अजा गावो महिष्यश्च निर्विशन्त्यो वनाद् वनम् । ईषीकाटवीं निर्विविशु: क्रन्दन्त्यो दावतर्षिता: ॥ २ ॥
ajā gāvo mahiṣyaś ca nirviśantyo vanād vanam īṣīkāṭavīṁ nirviviśuḥ krandantyo dāva-tarṣitāḥ
अजा गावो महिष्यश्च वनाद् वनं निर्विशन्त्यः; ईषीकाटवीं निर्विविशुः, दावातर्षिताः क्रन्दन्त्यः।
This verse describes the cows, goats, and buffaloes becoming distressed in a forest fire and crying out, setting the scene for Kṛṣṇa’s protective mercy toward Vraja’s animals and residents.
They have wandered into a dry reed-thicket and are overwhelmed by the heat and thirst produced by the spreading forest fire, so they cry in fear and pain.
When overwhelmed by “forest-fire” situations—sudden crises and anxiety—this verse encourages turning toward the Lord with sincerity, like the helpless crying of Vraja’s creatures, trusting divine shelter and guidance.