Shloka 2.49.10

एकोनपञ्चाशः सर्गः (Sarga 49): Rāma’s Night Journey Beyond Kosala and the Charioteer Address

Devanagari script

ततो वेदश्रुतिं नाम शिववारिवहां नदीम्।उत्तीर्याभिमुखः प्रायादगस्त्याध्युषितां दिशम्।।।।

Transliteration

sūta ity eva cābhāṣya sārathiṃ tam abhīkṣṇaśaḥ |

haṃsamattasvaraḥ śrīmān uvāca puruṣarṣabhaḥ ||2.19.14||

Translation

Saying only, “Sūta—charioteer!”, and addressing that driver again and again, the illustrious best of men spoke, his voice like that of an intoxicated swan.

Context

He then crossed the river Vedasruti flowing with sacred waters and went in the southern direction where sage Agastya resided.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• sūta/sārathi (charioteer)

FAQs

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

The verse frames dharma as composed speech and self-control: even under pressure, Rāma addresses others with restraint and dignity, maintaining royal maryādā.

What is the narrative situation?

A narrative lead-in: Rāma repeatedly calls to the charioteer and is about to give instructions or speak further.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s grace and measured communication—his demeanor remains refined even amid upheaval.