Shloka 2.52.3

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

Devanagari script

बर्हिणानां च निर्घोषः श्रूयते नदतां वने।तराम जाह्नवीं सौम्य शीघ्रगां सागरङ्गमाम्।।2.52.3।।

Transliteration

barhiṇānāṃ ca nirghoṣaḥ śrūyate nadatāṃ vane | tarāma jāhnavīṃ saumya śīghragāṃ sāgaraṅgamām || 2.52.3 ||

Translation

The calls of peacocks are heard in the forest; dear friend, let us cross the Jāhnavī (Gaṅgā), swift-flowing and bound for the sea.

Context

Listen to the screams of the peacocks in the forest. The Ganga is flowing fast to merge in the sea. We need to cross it.

Characters & Entities

• Peacocks (barhiṇa)
• Forest (vana)
• Jāhnavī/Gaṅgā
• Ocean (sāgara)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as forward-moving commitment to the exile path—continuing the journey without turning back.

What is the narrative situation?

On the forest route, Rāma points out natural sounds and urges crossing the Gaṅgā as part of their progress.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Resolve and leadership in hardship—guiding companions calmly through the journey.