Shloka 2.3.29

यौवराज्याभिषेक-उपकल्पनम् (Preparations for Rama’s Installation as Yuvaraja)

Devanagari script

गन्धर्वराजप्रतिमं लोके विख्यातपौरुषम्।।2.3.27।।दीर्घबाहुं महासत्त्वं मत्तमातङ्गगामिनम्।चन्द्रकान्ताननं राममतीव प्रियदर्शनम्।।2.3.28।।रूपौदार्यगुणैः पुंसां दृष्टिचित्तापहारिणम्।घर्माभितप्ताः पर्जन्यं ह्लादयन्तमिव प्रजाः।।2.3.29।।न ततर्प समायान्तं पश्यमानो नराधिपः।

Transliteration

iti pratyarcya tān rājā brāhmaṇān idam abravīt | vasiṣṭhaṃ vāmad evaṃ ca teṣām evopaśṛṇvatām ||

Translation

Thus, having duly honored those brāhmaṇas in return, the king spoke these words—addressing Vasiṣṭha and Vāmadeva while the others listened.

Context

Rama appeared as the very image of king of the gandharvas known for his courage in this world. With his long arms, he was extremely handsome with a countenance of the colour of moonstone possessed of immense strength, he walked with the gait of an intoxicated elephant. He captivated the eyes and hearts of men with his beauty and generosity. He looked like Parjanya (raingod), gladdening men scorched by heat. Even after (intensely) gazing at Rama approaching, the king (Dasaratha) was not satiated.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Vasiṣṭha
• Vāmadeva
• brāhmaṇas

FAQs

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

Reciprocal honor and respectful counsel: a king upholds dharma by honoring brāhmaṇas and seeking/using wise guidance in public matters.

What is the narrative situation?

After honoring the assembled brāhmaṇas, Daśaratha turns to speak formally to Vasiṣṭha and Vāmadeva, with the rest listening.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s reverence for learned elders and his commitment to rule through counsel and proper procedure.