The Killing of Ariṣṭāsura and Kaṁsa’s Plot to Summon Kṛṣṇa
इत्याज्ञाप्यार्थतन्त्रज्ञ आहूय यदुपुङ्गवम् । गृहीत्वा पाणिना पाणिं ततोऽक्रूरमुवाच ह ॥ २७ ॥
ity ājñāpyārtha-tantra-jña āhūya yadu-puṅgavam gṛhītvā pāṇinā pāṇiṁ tato ’krūram uvāca ha
इत्याज्ञाप्य स्वार्थतन्त्रज्ञः कंसो यदुपुङ्गवम् अक्रूरम् आहूय, पाणिना पाणिं गृहीत्वा ततोऽब्रवीत्।
This verse describes Kaṁsa as artha-tantra-jña—expert in statecraft—showing how he carefully plans and executes orders to further his aims.
Kaṁsa outwardly shows warmth and trust—holding Akrūra’s hand—while preparing to assign him a significant mission in the unfolding narrative.
It highlights how outward gestures can accompany serious responsibilities; a devotee learns discernment—judging situations by purpose and character, not merely appearances.