Shloka 3.23.17

महोत्पात-लक्षणानि (Omens before Khara’s Assault)

Devanagari script

सास्रा सम्पद्यते दृष्टिः पश्यमानस्य सर्वतः।।।।ललाटे च रुजा जाता न च मोहान्यवर्तत।

Transliteration

nipētus turagās tasya rathayuktā mahājavāḥ | samē puṣpacitē dēśē rājamārgē yadṛcchayā ||

Translation

Though yoked to his chariot and swift, his horses stumbled of their own accord on the level royal road strewn evenly with flowers.

Context

While watching all this, his eyes brimmed with tears. His forehead ached. Yet he was too deluded to beat a retreat.

Characters & Entities

• Khara (implied owner of chariot)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes attentiveness to warning signs and consequences; ignoring clear portents often reflects adharma-driven arrogance and poor judgment.

What is the narrative situation?

As Khara’s forces move out, unnatural mishaps occur on an otherwise favorable road, signaling impending calamity.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence (viveka) is implicitly recommended—though not yet practiced by the antagonists.