Shloka 2.17.20

रामस्य राजमार्गगमनम् (Rama’s Progress along the Royal Highway)

Devanagari script

स कक्ष्या धन्विभिर्गुप्तास्तिस्रोऽतिक्रम्य वाजिभिः।।।।पदातिरपरे कक्ष्ये द्वे जगाम नरोत्तमः।

Transliteration

sa kakṣyā dhanvibhir guptās tisro 'tikramya vājibhiḥ | padātir apare kakṣye dve jagāma narottamaḥ ||

Translation

Mounted, the best of men crossed three courtyards guarded by bowmen; then, dismounting, he proceeded on foot through the remaining two courtyards.

Context

Rama, the best among men, crossed the first three courtyards which were protected by bowmen on horses and crossed the remaining two on foot.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• bowmen/archers
• courtyards (kakṣyā)
• horses

FAQs

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

Dharma here is orderly governance: layered security and protocol protect the king’s household; Rama’s compliance shows respect for institutional order.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama passes through successive guarded enclosures of the palace complex, changing from mounted travel to walking as he approaches the inner areas.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discipline and propriety: Rama follows courtly procedure without impatience, reflecting respect for rule and hierarchy.