Shloka 2.46.8

तमसातीरवासः — Night on the Bank of the Tamasa and the Stratagem to Elude the Citizens

Devanagari script

भरतस्यानृशंसत्वं विचिन्त्याहं पुनः पुनः।नानुशोचामि पितरं मातरं चापि लक्ष्मण।।2.46.8।।

Transliteration

tataḥ samāsthāya rathaṃ mahārathaḥ sasārathir dāśarathir vanaṃ yayau | udaṅmukhaṃ taṃ tu rathaṃ cakāra sa prayāṇa-māṅgalya-nimitta-darśanāt ||2.46.34||

Translation

Thereafter the great warrior, Daśaratha’s son, mounted the chariot with his charioteer and set out for the forest. Seeing auspicious omens for the journey, Sumantra turned the chariot northward.

Context

As I reflect again and again on the benevolent nature of Bharata, there is no concern in me about my parents, O Lakshmana!

Characters & Entities

• Rama (Dasharathi)
• Sumantra
• Forest (vana)
• Auspicious omens (nimitta)
• North direction (udak/uttara)

FAQs

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

Dharma is framed as orderly, auspicious conduct (maryādā): even in exile, actions are performed with attentiveness to proper signs and disciplined procedure.

What is the narrative situation?

The party departs Ayodhyā; Sumantra turns the chariot northward, considering it auspicious for travel and consistent with the plan to misdirect citizens.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Attentive stewardship—Sumantra’s careful driving reflects responsible service and adherence to traditional norms regarding omens.