Shloka 2.40.50

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

Devanagari script

यमिच्छेत्पुनरायान्तं नैनं दूरमनुव्रजेत्।इत्यमात्या महाराजमूचुर्दशरथं वचः।।।।

Transliteration

yam icchet punar āyāntaṁ nainaṁ dūram anuvrajet |

ity amātyā mahārājam ūcur daśarathaṁ vacaḥ ||

Translation

One should not follow far those whom one wishes to return again. Thus the ministers spoke these words to King Daśaratha.

Context

We should not follow over a long distance those we wish to return, said the ministers to king Dasaratha.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• ministers (amātyāḥ)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is measured restraint: when a return is desired, excessive pursuit can become counterproductive; wise counsel favors self-control over impulsive attachment.

What is the narrative situation?

As separation unfolds, the ministers advise Daśaratha not to follow the departing party too far, hoping this will support their eventual return.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and governance-wisdom (nīti): the ministers model calm, practical judgment in a moment of intense grief.