Shloka 2.102.22

पितृमरणश्रवणं जलक्रिया च (Hearing of Daśaratha’s death and the libation rites at Mandākinī)

Devanagari script

ततो नित्यानुगस्तेषां विदितात्मा महामतिः।मृदुर्दान्तश्च कान्तश्च रामे च दृढभक्तिमान्।।।।सुमन्त्र स्तैर्नृपसुतैस्सार्धमाश्वस्य राघवम्।अवातारयदालम्ब्य नदीं मन्दाकिनीं शिवाम्।।।।

Transliteration

tato nityānugas teṣāṃ viditātmā mahāmatiḥ | mṛdur dāntaś ca śāntaś ca rāme ca dṛḍhabhaktimān ||

Translation

Thereafter Sumantra—ever devoted to them, spiritually discerning, highly intelligent, gentle, self-restrained, tranquil, and firmly devoted to Rāma—comforted him.

Context

Thereafter, their constant follower Sumantra who was conversant in spiritual knowledge, a high-minded person, soft-natured, self-controlled, tranquil-minded and staunchly devoted to Rama consoled him. Holding the hands of the princes, Sumantra helped their descent into the auspicious river Mandakini for taking bath.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Dharma here is expressed as loyal service (sevā) and steady devotion: Sumantra remains a constant attendant and supports Rāma in grief, showing that righteousness includes compassionate duty toward those in distress.

What is the narrative situation?

After the shock and sorrow surrounding Daśaratha’s death, Sumantra stays with the princes and consoles Rāma as they proceed with rites near the Mandākinī region.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s virtues—gentleness, self-control, tranquility, and steadfast devotion—are highlighted as ideals for a counselor-servant devoted to dharma.