Shloka 2.36.21

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

Devanagari script

तानुवाच ततो राजा किन्निमित्तमिदं भयम्।ताश्चापि राज्ञा सम्पृष्टा वाक्यं प्रकृतयोऽब्रुवन्।।।।

Transliteration

tān uvāca tato rājā kin-nimittam idaṃ bhayam | tāś cāpi rājñā sampṛṣṭā vākyaṃ prakṛtayo 'bruvan ||2.36.21||

Translation

Then the king said to them, “For what reason is there this fear?” And when questioned by the king, the subjects replied with these words.

Context

The king then asked them, 'Why this fear?'. And the citizens responded:

Characters & Entities

• King Sagara
• Subjects/citizens (prakṛtayaḥ)

FAQs

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

A dharmic ruler listens and inquires: kingship requires responsiveness to subjects’ distress and willingness to investigate wrongdoing rather than dismiss complaints.

What is the narrative situation?

After citizens issue an ultimatum, the king asks the cause of their fear, prompting their formal complaint.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Attentive governance—openness to hearing grievances and seeking reasons before judgment.