Shloka 2.40.17

प्रयाणवर्णनम् (Departure from Ayodhya; Civic Lament and the Chariot’s Urgency)

Devanagari script

तथैवायुधजालानि भ्रातृभ्यां कवचानि च। रथोपस्थे प्रतिन्यस्य सचर्म कठिनं च तत्।।2.40.16।।सीतातृतीयानारूढान् दृष्ट्वा दृष्टमचोदयत्। सुमन्त्रस्सम्मतानश्वान् वायुवेगसमान्जवे।।2.40.17।।

Transliteration

tathaivāyudha-jālāni bhrātṛbhyāṃ kavacāni ca | rathopasthe pratinyasya sa-carma kaṭhinaṃ ca tat ||

Translation

Likewise, he set upon the chariot-seat a store of weapons and armours for the two brothers, together with shields and firm protective guards.

Context

So also Dasaratha secured a multitude of weapons, shields and protective leathercoverings for hands and placed them at the centre of the chariot, for use by the brothers. When Sumantra ensured that Sita, Rama and Lakshmana boarded the chariot, he briskly hastened the horses which were as speedy as the wind.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• weapons (āyudha)
• armour (kavaca)
• shield (carma)
• chariot

FAQs

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

Dharma also entails prudent protection: preparing the righteous for danger is part of responsible kingship and guardianship.

What is the narrative situation?

Before the journey, protective equipment—arms and armour—is arranged in the chariot for Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Forethought and protective care by the elders/royal household in ensuring the exiles are not defenseless.