Shloka 10
वक्त्रं नाद्यान्नसौ स्यातां चतुर्थाद्यगणो भवेत् / पथ्यावक्त्रं जेन समे विपरीतादिरन्यथा
vaktraṃ nādyānnasau syātāṃ caturthādyagaṇo bhavet / pathyāvaktraṃ jena same viparītādiranyathā
If the opening (vaktra) is not preceded by the initial group (ādya), then the gaṇa beginning with the fourth is obtained. When the arrangement is even and balanced, it is called a “regular opening” (pathyā-vaktra); otherwise it is “reversed” (viparīta), and so forth.
Lord Vishnu (speaking to Garuda/Vinata-putra)
Concept: Classification by structural criteria: presence/absence of an initial group determines gaṇa sequence; evenness yields ‘pathyā’ (regular), otherwise ‘viparīta’ (irregular).
Vedantic Theme: vyavasthā (order) and lakṣaṇa (definition) as tools for correct cognition.
Application: In metrical analysis, check whether the vaktra is preceded by the initial gaṇa; then label the pattern as pathyā or viparīta based on even arrangement.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: adbhuta
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.208.9; Garuda Purana 1.208.12
FAQs
It indicates a ‘regular/standard opening’ pattern for the verse’s metrical arrangement, helping ensure correct chanting and faithful transmission of the text.
It classifies the opening structure of a verse and distinguishes regular (pathyā) from irregular (viparīta) patterns—useful for proper oral recitation during scriptural reading.
When reading or chanting Garuda Purana—especially in ritual contexts—follow the standard metrical opening where applicable and consult a competent reciter for irregular patterns to avoid errors.