Adhyāya 325: Nārada in Śvetadvīpa—Stotra to the Nirguṇa Mahātman
सूक्ष्मरक्ताम्बरधरास्तप्तकाज्चन भूषणा: । संलापोल्लापकुशला नृत्यगीतविशारदा:
sūkṣma-raktāmbara-dharās tapta-kāñcana-bhūṣaṇāḥ | saṃlāpollāpa-kuśalā nṛtya-gīta-viśāradāḥ ||
Wika ni Bhīṣma: Nakasuot sila ng pinong pulang kasuotan at pinalamutian ng mga alahas na ginto na kumikislap na wari’y bagong pinainit. Bihasa sila sa masining na usapan at mapaglarong tugunan, at dalubhasa sa sayaw at awit—mga anyo ng nilinang na aliw at pagpapakitang-gilas, sagisag ng pang-akit ng daigdig at hindi ng pagsisikap sa kabutihang-asal.
भीष्म उवाच
The verse highlights the attractiveness and sophistication of worldly pleasures—fine dress, gold ornaments, charming speech, music and dance—often used in Śānti Parva discussions to contrast external refinement with inner discipline, urging discernment about what truly supports dharma and peace of mind.
Bhīṣma is describing a group characterized by luxurious appearance and cultured entertainment skills—delicate red clothing, gold adornments, and expertise in conversation, dance, and song—painting a vivid picture of an alluring, pleasure-oriented milieu.