Shloka 2.4.12

अयोध्याकाण्डे चतुर्थः सर्गः — Rāma Summoned; Pushya Coronation Decision

Devanagari script

राम वृद्धोऽस्मि दीर्घायुर्भुक्ता भोगा मयेप्सिताः।अन्नवद्भिः क्रतुशतै स्तथेष्टं भूरिदक्षिणैः।।2.4.12।।

Transliteration

rāma vṛddho 'smi dīrghāyur bhuktā bhogā mayepsitāḥ | annavadbhiḥ kratuśataiḥ tathā iṣṭaṃ bhūridakṣiṇaiḥ || 2.4.12 ||

Translation

“Rāma, I have lived long and have grown old. I have enjoyed the pleasures I desired, and I have performed hundreds of sacrifices—rich in food and abundant gifts.”

Context

O Rama! after a long life I have grown old. I have enjoyed all the pleasures I desired. I have also performed hundreds of rituals which enjoined distribution of abundant food and gifts.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Rāma
• sacrifices (kratu)

FAQs

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

It highlights life-stage dharma: after fulfilling worldly and ritual obligations, a ruler turns toward orderly succession and duty to the future.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha begins explaining to Rāma why he is ready to pass responsibilities onward.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Accountability and honesty—Daśaratha truthfully assesses his age and completed duties.