Shloka 3.23.14

महोत्पात-लक्षणानि (Omens before Khara’s Assault)

Devanagari script

उद्धूतश्च विना वातं रेणुर्जलधरारुणः।।।।वीचीकूचीति वाश्यन्त्यो बभूवुस्तत्र शारिकाः।

Transliteration

uddhūtaś ca vinā vātaṃ reṇur jaladharāruṇaḥ |

vīcīkūcīti vāśyantyo babhūvus tatra śārikāḥ || 3.23.14 ||

Translation

Though no wind blew, dust billowed up, brown as a rain-cloud; and there the śārikā birds cried out “vīcīkūcī,” heedlessly.

Context

Although there was no wind, dust rose like a brown cloud and the sarika birds sang (vichi kuchi) thoughtlessly.

Characters & Entities

• dust cloud
• śārikā birds

FAQs

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

Dharma aligns action with order and clarity; adharma is portrayed through causeless disturbance—dust without wind—signaling disruption born of wrongful intent.

What is the narrative situation?

The march is accompanied by uncanny atmospheric signs and strange bird-cries, continuing the ominous buildup.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Mindful restraint (apramāda): not proceeding blindly when the environment itself signals disorder.