Shloka 13
Ūṣā-Haraṇa, Bāṇāsura’s Pride, and Aniruddha’s Capture
Prelude to Hari–Śaṅkara Conflict
कं त्वं मृगयसे सुभ्रु कीदृशस्ते मनोरथ: । हस्तग्राहं न तेऽद्यापि राजपुत्र्युपलक्षये ॥ १३ ॥
kaṁ tvaṁ mṛgayase su-bhru kīdṛśas te manorathaḥ hasta-grāhaṁ na te ’dyāpi rāja-putry upalakṣaye
चित्रलेखोवाच—कं त्वं मृगयसे सुभ्रु? कीदृशस्ते मनोरथः? अद्यापि, राजपुत्रि, न ते हस्तग्राहं कञ्चन नरं मया उपलक्षितम्॥
FAQs
This verse uses “hastagrāha” as a clear marker of accepted marriage; Bāṇāsura says he sees no sign that the princess has formally taken a husband’s hand.
Sensing his daughter’s unusual longing and secrecy, Bāṇāsura questions whom she is seeking and notes that she has not undergone the recognized marriage rite—hinting at a hidden relationship.
It highlights the value of clarity and integrity in relationships—being honest about one’s intentions and ensuring commitments are made responsibly rather than in secrecy.