MP Board · Class 10 · Hindi · Kshitij Poetry: Pad (Surdas)According to the Gopis, what should be the true 'Rajdharma' (duty of a king)? How does Krishna's current behavior violate it?

According to the Gopis in Surdas's poetry, the supreme 'Rajdharma' (duty of a ruler or king) is to protect the welfare of his subjects, safeguard their well-being, ensure justice, and never cause them any pain or hardship. A good king always relieves the suffering of his people instead of inflicting grief upon them. However, the Gopis point out that Shri Krishna is failing in his duty as a righteous king. Instead of personally visiting Mathura to satisfy the deep devotion of the Gopis who are suffering in the fire of separation, Krishna sent Uddhav with a cold, dry message of Yoga. By doing so, Krishna is tormenting his most faithful devotees. Furthermore, Krishna had promised to return to Braj, but broke his word. Thus, the Gopis accuse Krishna of engaging in political deceit and violating the core principles of Rajdharma.