Shloka 20
त्रिशङ्कुशापः
Trishanku’s Curse and Appeal to Viśvāmitra
यज्ञैर्बहुविधैरिष्टं प्रजा धर्मेण पालिता:।।।।गुरवश्च महात्मान श्शीलवृत्तेन तोषिता:।
yajñair bahuvidhair iṣṭaṃ prajā dharmeṇa pālitāḥ | guravaś ca mahātmānaḥ śīlavṛttena toṣitāḥ ||
আমি নানাবিধ যজ্ঞের দ্বারা আরাধনা করেছি; ধর্মমতে প্রজাদের পালন করেছি; আর মহাত্মা গুরুজন আমার শীল ও আচরণে সন্তুষ্ট হয়েছেন॥
I have performed various sacirifices and ruled over my people guided by the law of righteousness. I have pleased eminent elders with my conduct and character.
FAQs
Rāja-dharma is defined as protecting subjects under righteousness and honoring sacred duties (yajña), linking ethical governance with religious responsibility.
Triśaṅku argues his worthiness before Viśvāmitra by citing his sacrifices, just rule, and respectful conduct toward elders.
Responsible kingship—duty-bound protection of the people and reverence toward elders.