Shloka 2.47.1

अयोध्यायाः पौरविलापः (Lament of the Citizens of Ayodhya on Rama’s Absence)

Devanagari script

प्रभातायां तु शर्वर्यां पौरास्ते राघवं विना।शोकोपहतनिश्चेष्टा बभूवुर्हतचेतसः।।।।

Transliteration

prabhātāyāṃ tu śarvaryāṃ paurās te rāghavaṃ vinā | śokopahata-niśceṣṭā babhūvur hata-cetasaḥ || 2.47.1 ||

Translation

But when the night turned toward dawn, those citizens—without beholding Rāghava—became senseless and motionless, their minds crushed by grief.

Context

When the night advanced towards dawn the citizens were stunned not to see the scion of the Raghus (Rama). Overwhelmed with sorrow they lost their senses.

Characters & Entities

• Ayodhya citizens (paurāḥ)
• Raghava (Rama)
• Ayodhya (implied)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown through collective loyalty and moral attachment to a righteous ruler; the citizens’ grief reflects how deeply they value Rama’s truthfulness and rightful conduct.

What is the narrative situation?

At dawn, the citizens realize Rama is not with them; the shock of separation leaves them stunned.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The citizens’ fidelity (anurāga) to a dhārmic prince—an ethical bond between ruler and people.