Vidura-nīti: Atithi-dharma, Trust, Counsel-Secrecy, and Traits of Sustainable Rule
Udyoga Parva, Adhyāya 38
उत्थान संयमो दाक्ष्यमप्रमादो धृति: स्मृति: । समीक्ष्य च समारम्भो विद्धि मूलं भवस्य तु,उद्योग, संयम, दक्षता, सावधानी, धैर्य, स्मृति और सोच-विचारकर कार्यारम्भ करना-- इन्हें उन्नतिका मूल-मन्त्र समझिये
utthāna-saṁyamo dākṣyam apramādo dhṛtiḥ smṛtiḥ | samīkṣya ca samārambho viddhi mūlaṁ bhavasya tu ||
ودُر کہتے ہیں—اُتھّان (کوشش و محنت)، ضبطِ نفس، مہارت، بےغفلت رہنا (احتیاط)، ثابت قدمی، یادداشت، اور پرکھ کر کام کا آغاز کرنا—انہیں ہی فلاح و بہبود کی جڑ جانو۔
विदुर उवाच
Vidura defines the foundation of true welfare as a set of disciplined virtues: energetic effort, restraint, competence, vigilance, courage, mindful memory, and starting actions only after careful evaluation. Prosperity is presented as the fruit of character and prudent judgment rather than impulsive action.
In Udyoga Parva, as the Kuru court faces escalating conflict and high-stakes decisions, Vidura offers nīti (statecraft and moral counsel). This verse is part of his guidance emphasizing inner discipline and thoughtful action as essential for stability and success amid political turmoil.