Shloka 2.52.15

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

Devanagari script

आत्मानं त्वभ्यनुज्ञातमवेक्ष्यार्तः स सारथिः।सुमन्त्रः पुरुषव्याघ्रमैक्ष्वाकमिदमब्रवीत्।।2.52.15।।

Transliteration

ātmānaṃ tv abhyanujñātam avekṣyārtaḥ sa sārathiḥ |

sumantraḥ puruṣavyāghram aikṣvākam idam abravīt ||

Translation

Seeing that leave to depart had been granted, Sumantra the charioteer, stricken with sorrow, spoke these words to Rama—the tiger among men, scion of the Ikṣvāku line.

Context

Having been permitted to go, Sumantra, the distressed charioteer, said to Rama, the best among men, and a descendant of the Ikshvaku race:

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Rama
• Ikshvaku dynasty

FAQs

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

Dharma here is expressed as respectful restraint and duty-bound speech: after receiving Rama’s permission, Sumantra speaks with propriety, showing loyalty to his charge while honoring Rama’s authority.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama is preparing to go onward into forest life; Sumantra has been given leave to return, and, overwhelmed by grief, he begins addressing Rama.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s devotion and fidelity (bhakti/niṣṭhā) to Rama and the Ikṣvāku household, shown through sorrowful yet respectful speech.