Shloka 2.40.20

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

Devanagari script

तत स्सबालवृद्धा सा पुरी परमपीडिता।राममेवाभिदुद्राव घर्मार्ता सलिलं यथा।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ sa-bāla-vṛddhā sā purī parama-pīḍitā | rāmam evābhidudrāva gharmārtā salilaṃ yathā ||

Translation

Then that city—young and old alike—tormented by anguish, ran only toward Rāma, as those scorched by heat run toward water.

Context

Thereafter the extremely afflicted people of the city, including young and old alike, ran towards Rama like men oppressed with heat running for water.

Characters & Entities

• Ayodhyā (citizens)
• Rāma

FAQs

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

The verse reflects rājadhrama’s ideal: the people seek the righteous ruler as a necessity of life, implying that dharmic leadership is a public refuge.

What is the narrative situation?

All sections of Ayodhyā’s population rush after Rāma’s departing chariot, unable to bear separation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s benevolence and trustworthiness—he is perceived as life-sustaining for his people.