Shloka 3.1.13

तापसाश्रममण्डलदर्शनम् (Entering Dandaka and Meeting the Sages)

Devanagari script

रूपसंहननं लक्ष्मीं सौकुमार्यं सुवेषताम्।ददृशुर्विस्मिताकारा रामस्य वनवासिनः।।।।

Transliteration

rūpasaṃhananaṃ lakṣmīṃ saukumāryaṃ suveṣatām | dadṛśur vismitākārā rāmasya vanavāsinaḥ ||

Translation

The forest-dwelling sages, astonished, beheld in Rāma the beauty and symmetry of his form, his radiance, his gentle delicacy, and his fitting attire—even in the wilderness.

Context

Those sages living in the forest were wonder-struck to see the handsome, graceful, delicate and well-dressed Rama.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Forest sages (vanavāsinaḥ)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Dharma is portrayed as an inner nobility that remains evident outwardly even in hardship: Rāma’s auspicious presence and composure shine despite forest exile.

What is the narrative situation?

The sages visually assess Rāma upon meeting him and are struck by his auspicious, refined appearance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s dignity and self-mastery—maintaining order, propriety, and grace (maryādā) even in adversity.