Shloka 2.2.49

यौवराज्य-प्रस्तावः (Proposal for Rāma’s Installation as Heir-Apparent)

Devanagari script

वत्सश्श्रेयसि जातस्ते दिष्ट्याऽसौ तव राघव।दिष्ट्या पुत्रगुणैर्युक्तो मारीच इव काश्यपः।।2.2.49।।

Transliteration

mayāpy ācaritaṃ pūrvaiḥ panthānam anugacchatā | prajā nityam anidreṇa yathāśakty abhirakṣitāḥ || 2.2.6 ||

Translation

Following the path practiced by my forefathers, I have protected the people constantly, with sleepless vigilance, to the best of my ability.

Context

O son of the Raghus (Dasaratha)!, because of your good fortune that Rama, endowed with the qualities of an ideal son like Kasyapa to Maricha was born to you for the welfare of this world.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• forefathers (Ikṣvāku ancestors)
• prajā (subjects)

FAQs

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

A ruler’s dharma includes continuous vigilance and protection of subjects; governance is portrayed as an unceasing moral labor rather than a privilege.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha summarizes his reign as faithful to ancestral standards, preparing the ground for transferring responsibility to a worthy successor.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsibility and discipline—anidratā (wakeful vigilance) in service of the people.