Shloka 2.50.16

गङ्गादर्शनम् तथा गुहसमागमः (Vision of the Gaṅgā and Meeting with Guha)

Devanagari script

जलाघाताट्टहासोग्रां फेननिर्मलहासिनीम्।क्वचिद्वेणीकृतजलां क्वचिदावर्तशोभिताम्।।2.50.16।।

Transliteration

deva-dānava-gandharvaiḥ kinnarair upaśobhitām |

nānā-gandharva-patnībhiḥ sevitāṁ satataṁ śivām || 2.50.14 ||

Translation

That auspicious Gaṅgā shone, adorned by devas, dānavas, gandharvas, and kinnaras, and was continually visited and honored by the wives of many gandharvas—ever gracious and holy.

Context

The sound of dashing waters of the Ganga is like her laughter and the foam like her sparkling smile. Here she flows straight like the braid of a maiden and there in whirlpools.

Characters & Entities

• Gaṅgā
• Devas
• Dānavas
• Gandharvas
• Kinnaras
• Gandharva-wives

FAQs

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

Dharma is suggested as a universal order: the sacred river is honored across beings, implying that holiness and truth are not sectarian but cosmically acknowledged.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration continues the praise of Gaṅgā, emphasizing her celestial associations and constant visitation by divine and semi-divine beings.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverence (śraddhā) toward sacred rivers and places—an essential virtue in the Ramayana’s dhārmic worldview.