Shloka 2.114.21

अयोध्याप्रवेशः — Bharata Enters Ayodhya and Perceives the City’s Desolation

Devanagari script

भरतस्तु रथस्थ स्सन् श्रीमान्दशरथात्मजः। वाहयन्तं रथश्रेष्ठं सारथिं वाक्यमब्रवीत्।।2.114.21।।

Transliteration

bharatas tu rathasthaḥ san śrīmān daśarathātmajaḥ | vāhayantaṃ rathaśreṣṭhaṃ sārathiṃ vākyam abravīt || 2.114.21 ||

Translation

Then Bharata, the illustrious son of Daśaratha, seated in the chariot, spoke these words to the charioteer who was driving that finest of chariots.

Context

Illustrious Bharata, son of Dasaratha, seated in his chariot, addressed the charioteer as he drove the most excellent of chariots saying:

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Daśaratha
• Ayodhyā

FAQs

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

The verse frames responsible inquiry: a dharmic prince does not ignore ominous change; he seeks understanding before action, reflecting disciplined leadership.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration shifts from description of Ayodhya to Bharata beginning to question his charioteer.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s attentiveness and seriousness of purpose—traits of rājadharma (ethical governance).