Forsooth, father is a venerable preceptor and is to be respected with all care. Methinks I have not committed any offence in this respect. You have said, 'Why do you seek shelter of the eternal?' I do not know how far this statement is sound and reasonable". Having said this Prahlāda remained speechless for some time to uphold their dignity. And again smiling he said: "'Why do you seek shelter of the eternal,' was it fair for you to accost me thus? What need of the eternal?

In plain words: Prahlada says he truly respects his father and has done nothing wrong there. But he questions their claim that there is no need to seek shelter in the eternal God. He stays quiet for a while out of respect, then smiles and asks if that was a fair thing to say.