Mahabharata — Virata Parva, Shloka 19
Virāṭa-parva Adhyāya 23: Report of the Slain Sūtaputras, Royal Orders, and Sairandhrī’s Return
श्मशानाभिमुख: प्रायाद् यत्र ते कीचका गता: । स लड्घयित्वा प्राकारं नि:सृत्य च पुरोत्तमात् | जवेन पतितो भीम: सूतानामग्रतस्तदा
śmaśānābhimukhaḥ prāyād yatra te kīcakā gatāḥ | sa laṅghayitvā prākāraṃ niḥsṛtya ca purottamāt | javena patito bhīmaḥ sūtānām agratas tadā ||
श्मशानाभिमुखः प्रायाद् यत्र ते कीचका गताः। स लङ्घयित्वा प्राकारं निःसृत्य च पुरोत्तमात्॥ जवेन पतितो भीमः सूतानामग्रतस्तदा॥
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
Prompt, decisive action in defense of dharma—especially the protection of the vulnerable and the restraint of aggressors—can be a moral duty; Bhīma’s speed and resolve symbolize uncompromising commitment to justice.
After the Kīcakas head toward the cremation-ground, Bhīma immediately follows them, vaults the city-wall, exits the city, and reaches the spot ahead of the sūtas (charioteers’ party), preparing for confrontation.