Shloka 3.15.23

पञ्चवटी-निवासः (Settlement at Pañcavaṭī and Construction of the Hermitage)

Devanagari script

पर्णशालां सुविपुलां तत्र सङ्खातमृत्तिकाम्।सुस्तम्भां मस्करैर्दीर्घैः कृतवंशां सुशोभनाम्।।3.15. 21।।शमीशाखाभिरास्तीर्य दृढपाशावपाशिताम्।कुशकाशशरैः पर्णैस्सुपरिच्छादितां तथा।।3.15.22।।समीकृततलां रम्यां चकार लघुविक्रमः।निवासं राघवस्यार्थे प्रेक्षणीयमनुत्तमम्।।3.15.23।।

Transliteration

samīkṛta-talāṃ ramyāṃ cakāra laghu-vikramaḥ |

nivāsaṃ rāghavasyārthe prekṣaṇīyam anuttamam || 3.15.23 ||

Translation

The swift-acting Lakṣmaṇa levelled the ground and made a charming dwelling—an excellent, sight-worthy residence—intended for Rāghava (Rāma).

Context

Lakshmana who was quick to act dug the clay with nippers, planted long bamboo poles, put branches of sami trees across and tied them with strong ropes. He spread kusa and kasa grass and leaves on the levelled ground. He built a beautiful, spacious and nice residence for Rama.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāghava (Rāma)
• nivāsa (residence)

FAQs

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

Duty expressed as excellence in service: dharma is not merely intention; it is careful, responsible action done for the rightful purpose (rāghavasyārthe).

What is the narrative situation?

The hut and its site are completed—levelled, orderly, and fit for Rāma’s forest-residence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kṛtī (effective doer) and bhakti (devotion): Lakṣmaṇa’s capability is guided by loyal commitment to Rāma.