tato duryodhanaḥ visasarja ca pāṇḍavān

tato (then) duryodhanaḥ (Duryodhana) ca (and) pāṇḍavān (Pāṇḍavas) visasarja (released or let go)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In this verse, 'tato duryodhanaḥ visasarja ca pāṇḍavān', Śaṅkarācārya would likely interpret Duryodhana's actions as a manifestation of avidyā (ignorance), which leads to the separation of the individual self (jīva) from its true nature, Brahman. The banishment of the Pāṇḍavas symbolizes the jīva's entrapment in the cycle of saṃsāra, driven by egoistic desires and a fragmented understanding of reality. According to Śaṅkarācārya, the ultimate reality is Brahman, and the individual self is not separate from it. This verse, in the context of the Mahābhārata, points to the necessity of transcending such dualistic perceptions, realizing the non-dual nature of Brahman-ātman, where the distinctions between the self and the ultimate reality dissolve, as discussed in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras. The ignorance represented by Duryodhana's actions must be overcome to achieve this unity, highlighting the importance of self-inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge (jñāna) to realize one's true nature.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava tradition, particularly through the lens of Rāmānujācārya, might interpret this verse as an exemplification of the complex interplay between the jīva (individual souls) and Īśvara (the Supreme Lord). Duryodhana's decision to banish the Pāṇḍavas can be seen as an act of free will influenced by his own karma and the divine plan of Īśvara. This act, though driven by personal motives, ultimately serves a higher purpose within the cosmic drama orchestrated by the Supreme Being. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Gītā, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the dependence of all beings on Īśvara and the role of bhakti (devotion) in achieving spiritual liberation. This verse underscores the concept of the Lord's sovereignty (īśvaratva) and the intricate relationship between divine providence and human actions, encouraging a perspective that sees all events, including Duryodhana's banishment of the Pāṇḍavas, as part of a larger divine plan.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his synthesis of Vedāntic thought with modern applicability, might see this verse as a reflection of the universal struggle between the forces of division and unity. Duryodhana's banishment of the Pāṇḍavas symbolizes the divisive tendencies that arise from egoism, selfishness, and a lack of understanding of the intrinsic oneness of all beings. Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, such as 'The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda', often emphasized the need for recognizing and transcending such divisive forces to achieve a higher level of consciousness and social harmony. This verse, in the context of contemporary life, serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering unity, tolerance, and understanding. It encourages individuals to look beyond superficial differences and strive for a realization of the common human experience and the interconnectedness of all, echoing Vivekānanda's call for a practical Vedānta that addresses the needs and challenges of the modern world.

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