Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 1, Shloka 4
गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः
Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent
राजाऽपि तौ महातेजा स्सस्मार प्रोषितौ सुतौ।उभौ भरतशत्रुघ्नौ महेन्द्रवरुणोपमौ।।।।
rājāpi tau mahātejā sasmāra proṣitau sutau | ubhau bharataśatrughnau mahendravaruṇopamau ||
The radiant king Daśaratha also remembered his two sons—Bharata and Śatrughna—who were away from home, and who were likened to Mahendra (Indra) and Varuṇa.
The thought of seeing his dear son coronated repeatedly surfaced his mind so great was his affection (for Rama).
FAQs
Dharma here is the king’s responsibility to remain mindful of all his children and household duties, even while planning major state decisions.
As events move toward Rāma’s elevation, Daśaratha recalls that Bharata and Śatrughna are currently away from Ayodhyā.
Daśaratha’s parental concern and impartial remembrance of his sons.