Shloka 2.52.11

गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)

Devanagari script

ततः कलापान् सन्नह्य खड्गौ बध्वा च धन्विनौ।जग्मतुर्येन तौ गङ्गां सीतया सह राघवौ।।2.52.11।।

Transliteration

nivartasvety uvācaiva hy etāvad dhi kṛtaṃ mama | rathaṃ vihāya padbhyāṃ tu gamiṣyāmi mahāvanam ||

Translation

“Return,” he said; “you have done enough for me up to this point. Leaving the chariot behind, I shall go on foot into the great forest.”

Context

Rama and Lakshmana then put on their quivers, fastened their swords and holding their bows went towards Ganga along with Sita.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sumantra
• Chariot
• Forest (mahāvana)

FAQs

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

Acceptance of vowed duty: Rāma embraces the hardship of exile without clinging to royal comforts, aligning action with truth and obligation.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma formally ends Sumantra’s escort and declares his intention to proceed into the forest on foot.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Tyāga (renunciation) and steadfastness: Rāma chooses simplicity and hardship as required by his dharma.