The Conqueror Returns to His City
Bala Kanda, Doha 154
Doha 154 · Movement 2 of 2
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With the world brought under his authority by strength of arm, Pratapbhanu turns homeward. The conquering army enters the capital through gates crowded with subjects, treasure, tribute, elephants, horses, and the marks of victories won far away.
The king does not abandon order after conquest. Artha, dharma, kama, and every other blessing are enjoyed in their proper season, none allowed to consume the place belonging to another.
Power, pleasure, prosperity, and sacred duty appear balanced beneath one discernment. The scene holds the fullness of royal success, making the small opening through which ruin will later enter almost impossible to imagine.
Pratapbhanu returns with the world behind him and every human aim arranged in its season.
Read the passage from the Manas
स्वबस बिस्व करि बाहुबल निज पुर कीन्ह प्रबेसु। अरथ धरम कामादि सुख सेवइ समयँ नरेसु।।154।।
Having brought the whole world under his sway by the strength of his arms, he entered his own city. The king enjoyed artha, dharma, kama, and every other blessing, each in its proper season.