The hermit has just convinced the king to not kill the deer. These are the reactions of the hermit and the king. King (bowing low): It is done. (He does so.)

Hermit (joyfully): A deed worthy of you, scion of Puru's race, and shining example of kings. May you beget a son to rule earth and heaven.

King (bowing low): I am thankful for a Brahman's blessing.

–Shakuntala,
Kalidasa

What does the literature tell you about religious beliefs during the Gupta Empire?

People believed that the gods would reward them if they made wise choices.
People believed that the gods would punish them if they did the wrong thing.
Hermits did not have much influence as the gods.
Kings were powerful gods in Gupta culture.