Shloka 2.52.26

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

Devanagari script

यद्यथा स महाराजो नालीकमधिगच्छति।न च ताम्यति दुःखेन सुमन्त्र कुरु तत्तथा।।2.52.26।।

Transliteration

yad yathā sa mahārājo nālīkam adhigacchati | na ca tāmyati duḥkhena sumantra kuru tat tathā || 2.52.26 ||

Translation

Sumantra, act in such a way that the great king does not fall into despair and does not wither in grief.

Context

Sumantra! do things exactly in the manner the great king desires so that he does not feel sad or disappointed.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Sumantra

FAQs

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

Dharma includes compassionate conduct: one should act to reduce the suffering of elders and superiors, especially a father-king in distress.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma is guiding Sumantra on how to manage Daśaratha’s emotional state amid the exile crisis.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Empathy and responsibility in service—acting with sensitivity to another’s grief.