Shloka 2.52.22

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

Devanagari script

इक्ष्वाकूणां त्वया तुल्यं सुहृदं नोपलक्षये।यथा दशरथो राजा मां न शोचेत्तथा कुरु।।2.52.22।।

Transliteration

ikṣvākūṇāṃ tvayā tulyaṃ suhṛdaṃ nopalakṣaye |

yathā daśaratho rājā māṃ na śocet tathā kuru ||

Translation

Among the Ikṣvākus I see no friend equal to you. Therefore act in such a way that King Daśaratha does not grieve for me.

Context

I find none else like you as friendly as you are to the Ikshvaku race. So do whatever you like to see that king Dasaratha does not brood over me.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sumantra
• Dasharatha
• Ikshvaku dynasty

FAQs

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

Filial dharma and compassionate responsibility: even while obeying exile, Rama seeks to reduce his father’s suffering through trusted mediation.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama instructs Sumantra, who is returning to Ayodhya, to act so that Daśaratha does not succumb to grief over Rama’s departure.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s concern for his father and his gratitude toward loyal servants—recognizing Sumantra as a true well-wisher of the dynasty.