Shloka 2.1.44

गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः (Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent)

Devanagari script

आत्मनश्च प्रजानां च श्रेयसे च प्रियेण च।।।।प्राप्तकालेन धर्मात्मा भक्त्या त्वरितवान् नृपः।

Transliteration

ātmanaś ca prajānāṁ ca śreyase ca priyeṇa ca |

prāptakālena dharmātmā bhaktyā tvaritavān nṛpaḥ ||2.1.44||

Translation

For his own good and for the welfare of his subjects, and out of affectionate concern, the righteous king—seeing that the proper time had come—hastened forward with earnest intent.

Context

Longing for it, the noble king realized that the time was ripe for the acceleration of the process of safeguarding his own and his subjects' welfare.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Subjects (prajā)

FAQs

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

A king’s dharma is prajā-hita—acting at the right time for the people’s welfare, not merely personal preference. Timely action is part of righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha feels urgency to proceed with a major decision/process (the coronation preparations contextually), believing the time is appropriate.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsibility and foresight—he prioritizes collective welfare and acts without delay when duty calls.