Shloka 2.16.2

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

Devanagari script

तदन्तःपुरद्वारं समतीत्य जनाकुलम्।प्रविविक्तां ततः कक्ष्यामाससाद पुराणवित्।।2.16.1।।प्रासकार्मुकबिभ्रद्भिर्युवभिर्मृष्टकुण्डलैः।अप्रमादिभिरेकाग्रै स्स्वनुरक्तैरधिष्ठिताम्।।2.16.2।।

Transliteration

prāsakārmukabibhradbhir yuvabhir mṛṣṭakuṇḍalaiḥ |

apramādibhir ekāgraiḥ svanuraktair adhiṣṭhitām || 2.16.2 ||

Translation

It was guarded by young men with gleaming earrings—ever watchful, single-minded, devoted to their lord—bearing spears and bows.

Context

Sumantra, who was conversant with ancient traditions, passed through the entrance of the inner apartment full of people and reached the sparsely crowded courtyard. There alert, loyal young men were attentively guarding the frontyard, armed with spears and bows and wearing shining earrings.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• antaḥpura (inner apartments)

FAQs

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

Dharma here appears as disciplined royal service: vigilant protection carried out with devotion and focus, reflecting the king’s orderly governance and the attendants’ duty.

What is the narrative situation?

As Sumantra proceeds within the royal residence, the text describes the guarded inner precincts—young guards stationed with weapons and attentive posture.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The guards’ apramāda (vigilance) and ekāgratā (focused attention), joined with loyalty to their rightful lord.