Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 54, Shloka 17
भरद्वाजाश्रमप्राप्तिः
Arrival at Bharadvāja’s Hermitage and Counsel toward Citrakūṭa
तस्य तद्वचनं श्रुत्वा राजपुत्रस्य धीमतः।उपानयत धर्मात्मा गामर्घ्यमुदकं ततः।।।।
tasya tadvacanaṁ śrutvā rājaputrasya dhīmataḥ |
upānayat dharmātmā gām arghyam udakaṁ tataḥ ||
Hearing those words of the wise prince, the righteous-souled sage then brought a bull, water, and arghya—honor-offerings due to a guest.
The ascetic who practised severe penance offered them different kinds of food and drink made from roots and fruits available in the forest. He also provided them a place to rest in.
FAQs
Atithi-dharma (duty to a guest): the sage responds to Rama’s truthful words by offering the traditional honors—showing that righteousness is practiced through concrete acts of hospitality.
After listening to Rama, Bharadvaja performs guest-reception by arranging customary offerings.
Generosity and propriety—Bharadvaja’s careful observance of the ethical code of welcoming guests.