Shloka 2.36.12

अयोध्याकाण्डे षट्त्रिंशः सर्गः — Daśaratha’s orders for Rama’s escort; Kaikeyi’s fear; the Asamañjasa precedent

Devanagari script

राज्यं गतजनं साधो पीतमण्डां सुरामिव।निरास्वाद्यतमं शून्यं भरतो नाभिपत्स्यते।।।।

Transliteration

rājyaṃ gatajanaṃ sādho pītamaṇḍāṃ surām iva | nirāsvādyatamaṃ śūnyaṃ bharato nābhipatsyate || 2.36.12 ||

Translation

O righteous king, Bharata will not accept a kingdom deserted by its people, empty and joyless—like wine whose very essence has been drained away.

Context

O virtuous king! Bharata will not take charge of the kingdom abandoned by men, drained of wealth and incapable of being enjoyed, like wine with its essence evaporated.

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha
• Bharata

FAQs

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

It implies that kingship without popular support and prosperity is ethically and practically hollow; a ruler should not seek a ‘vacant’ sovereignty lacking legitimacy and welfare.

What is the narrative situation?

Kaikeyī argues that if Rāma is removed and the realm destabilized, Bharata will not consent to rule such a depleted kingdom.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s presumed integrity and refusal to enjoy an unrighteous or joyless gain—anticipating his later conduct in the epic.