Freed kings pledge support for Yudhishthira's Rajasuya
The kings rescued from Jarasandha's prison approach Krishna to ask how they can repay their debt. Krishna tells them that Yudhishthira wishes to perform the Rajasuya sacrifice to become sovereign emperor, and asks for their aid.
After Jarasandha’s death, all the citizens of Magadha, with the brahmanas at their forefront, approached Krishna outside the city to pay homage according to the prescribed rites. The kings who had just been liberated from their bondage worshipped Madhusudana with words of praise.
“O mighty-armed one! Aided by the strength of Bhima and Arjuna, it is not surprising that the protection of dharma (righteousness) is vested in you,” they said. “Today you have rescued kings who were miserably immersed in Jarasandha’s terrible mire. O Vishnu! We languished in that mountain fortress. It is our destiny that we have been freed and you have obtained blazing fame. Please tell us what we should do. However difficult the task, know that the kings will accomplish it.”
Reassuring them, the great-minded Hrishikesha (Krishna) replied. “Yudhishthira wishes to perform the rajasuya (imperial consecration sacrifice). He who lives by dharma wishes to become a sovereign emperor. All of you must aid him in the sacrifice.”
Hearing this, all the kings gave their word with happy hearts. The lords of the earth then made Dasharha (Krishna) share in their riches. Though disinclined to accept, Govinda (Krishna) did so out of affection for them.