NCERT · Class 10 · Hindi · Kshitij Poetry: Pad (Surdas)According to the Gopis, what should be the duty of a king (Rajdharma)? Why do they remind Krishna of his royal duty?

According to the Gopis, the primary duty of a king (Rajdharma) is to protect his subjects, ensure their well-being, and never cause them distress or injustice under any circumstances. A true ruler always strives to relieve the suffering of his people rather than tormenting them. The Gopis remind Lord Krishna of his Rajdharma because, after moving to Mathura and becoming a ruler, Krishna sent Uddhav with a message of Yoga instead of fulfilling his promise to return himself. This message caused immense mental agony and pain to the Gopis, who were suffering in his separation. By sending Yoga, Krishna acts contrary to a king's duty by persecuting his most loyal devotees. Hence, Gopis remind him to uphold true justice.