Shloka 2.45.9

अयोध्यावासिजनानुरागः — The People and Brahmins Follow Rama toward Exile

Devanagari script

स हि राजगुणैर्युक्तो युवराजः समीक्षितः।अपि चापि मया शिष्टैः कार्यं वो भर्तृशासनम्।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ sumantro 'pi rathād vimucya śrāntān hayān samparivartya śīghram |

pītodakāṃs toya-pariplutāṅgān acārayad vai tamasāvidūre ||

Translation

Then Sumantra, too, unyoked the weary horses from the chariot, quickly letting them roll and rest; after giving them water to drink and bathing their limbs, he released them to graze not far from the river Tamasā.

Context

Endowed with kingly qualities, he is recognised as heir-apparent. Therefore, as I did, all of you should obey the order of the king.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Tamasā (river)
• Chariot
• Horses

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as conscientious service and non-cruelty: even in crisis, Sumantra ensures the animals are rested, watered, and cared for.

What is the narrative situation?

During the halt near the Tamasā, Sumantra tends to the chariot horses—unyoking them, washing them, and letting them graze.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Attentive stewardship and duty of a retainer: Sumantra’s reliability is shown through practical, compassionate care.