Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – अकीर्तिं चापि भूतानि कथयिष्यन्ति ते ऽवययाम

Shloka (श्लोक)

अकीर्तिं चापि भूतानि कथयिष्यन्ति ते ऽवययाम
संभावितस्य चाकीर्तिर मरणाद अतिरिच्यते

⚡ Quick Meaning

Your actions will lead to infamy, and even in death, the worst fate is to be remembered poorly by all.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka warns that if Arjuna shirks his duty in battle, not only will he lose his own renown, but he will also be the subject of gossip and disgrace among future generations, which is far worse than death.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक चेतावनी देता है कि यदि अर्जुन युद्ध में अपनी जिम्मेदारी से मुंह मोड़ता है, तो वह न केवल अपनी प्रतिष्ठा खो देगा, बल्कि आने वाली पीढ़ियों में अपशब्दों का भी शिकार बनेगा, जो मृत्यु से कहीं अधिक भयावह है।

Commentary

Context

Krsna highlights the dire consequences of failing to fulfill one’s duty. This serves as a motivation for Arjuna amid a great moral crisis regarding the battle.

Meaning

This illustrates the importance of reputation and esteem in one’s life and how failing to act justly can lead one to be remembered poorly.

Application

This remains a relevant lesson today, pushing individuals to live honorably and with integrity, ensuring their legacy is positive.