Shloka 2.16.18

सुमन्त्रदर्शनम् तथा रामस्य राजदर्शनाय प्रस्थानम् (Sumantra Meets Rama; Rama Departs to See the King)

Devanagari script

दिष्ट्या खलु महाराजो महिष्या प्रियया सह।सुमन्त्रं प्राहिणोद्दूतमर्थकामकरं मम।।।।

Transliteration

diṣṭyā khalu mahārājo mahiṣyā priyayā saha |

sumantraṃ prāhiṇod dūtam arthakāmakaraṃ mama || 2.16.18 ||

Translation

Truly, fortune smiles: the great king, together with his beloved queen, has sent Sumantra as messenger—one who advances my welfare and rightful aims.

Context

It is our fortune that the king and his dear queen have sent Sumantra as messenger who is interested in my prosperity and pleasure.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sita
• Dasharatha
• Kaikeyi
• Sumantra

FAQs

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

It suggests that artha and kāma are rightful when aligned with dharma—Rāma views the royal summons as a legitimate, auspicious step toward responsible rule.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma interprets Sumantra’s arrival as a favourable sign that the king and queen are moving forward with plans for his consecration.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s optimism grounded in duty, and Sumantra’s reliability as a trusted royal emissary.