Shloka 2.3.38

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

Devanagari script

स तं सस्मितमाभाष्य पुत्रं पुत्रवतां वरः।।।।उवाचेदं वचो राजा देवेन्द्रमिव काश्यपः।

Transliteration

sa taṃ sasmitaṃ ābhāṣya putraṃ putravatāṃ varaḥ |

uvācedaṃ vaco rājā devendram iva kāśyapaḥ ||

Translation

Smiling as he addressed his son, the king—best among fathers—spoke these words, like Kaśyapa speaking to Devendra.

Context

The best among fathers, he (Dasaratha) said these words to his son with a smile, like Kasyapa addressing Devendra.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Rāma
• Kaśyapa
• Devendra (Indra)

FAQs

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

Dharma is transmitted through affectionate instruction: the father’s smile and direct address frame guidance as benevolent, not coercive.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha transitions from welcoming gestures to formally speaking to Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s dignified warmth and the auspicious authority of a father-king.