Shloka 3.11.40

पञ्चाप्सरो-सरः कथनम् तथा अगस्त्याश्रममार्गनिर्देशः (Panchapsara Lake Account and Directions to Agastya)

Devanagari script

पद्मिन्यो विविधास्तत्र प्रसन्नसलिलाश्शिवाः।।।।हंसकारण्डवाकीर्णाश्चक्रवाकोपशोभिताः।तत्रैकां रजनीं व्युष्य प्रभाते राम गम्यताम्।।।।

Transliteration

padminyo vividhās tatra prasannasalilāḥ śivāḥ | haṃsakāraṇḍavākīrṇāś cakravākopaśobhitāḥ | tatraikāṃ rajanīṃ vyuṣya prabhāte rāma gamyatām ||

Translation

There are many lotus-ponds there, with clear and auspicious waters, filled with swans and ducks and beautified by cakravāka birds. Spend one night there, O Rāma, and then depart at dawn.

Context

O Rama, there are lotus-ponds filled with clear, sacred waters, with different kinds of swans, ducks and ruddy geese. Spend one night there and proceed early in the morning.

Characters & Entities

• Sutīkṣṇa
• Rāma
• lotus-ponds (padminī)
• swans (haṃsa)
• ducks (kāraṇḍava)
• cakravāka birds

FAQs

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

Dharma includes prudent conduct on a journey: resting at a safe, auspicious place and traveling at the proper time supports protection and right action.

What is the narrative situation?

Sutīkṣṇa recommends a beautiful resting place with ponds and birds, advising Rāma to stay one night and proceed at dawn.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical wisdom (nīti) and care for companions—planning rest and travel to maintain safety and order.