Shloka 2.52.13

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

Devanagari script

ततोऽब्रवीद्दाशरथिः सुमन्त्रं स्पृशन् करेणोत्तमदक्षिणेन।सुमन्त्र शीघ्रं पुनरेव याहिराज्ञः सकाशे भव चाप्रमत्तः।।2.52.13।।

Transliteration

sa lokapāla-pratima-prabhāvāṃs tīrtvā mahātmā varado mahānadīm | tataḥ samṛddhān śubha-sasya-mālinaḥ krameṇa vatsān muditān upāgamat ||

Translation

Having crossed that mighty river, he—great-souled, a giver of boons, resplendent like a guardian of the world—then gradually came to the land of the Vatsas, prosperous and garlanded with fine crops, its people joyful.

Context

Rama then caressed Sumantra with his right hand and said, Sumantra, go back immediately and never be inattentive in serving the king.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Gaṅgā (implied by sequence)
• Vatsa (country)

FAQs

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

Dharma as protective radiance: Rāma is portrayed with the majesty of a lokapāla, suggesting the ideal ruler’s duty to uphold order and welfare even while personally suffering exile.

What is the narrative situation?

After crossing the great river, Rāma proceeds onward and reaches the prosperous Vatsa region in stages.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Mahātmatā (nobility of spirit) and steadiness—Rāma’s journey continues with calm purpose and dignified presence.