Shloka 2.52.34

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

Devanagari script

भरतश्चापि वक्तव्यो यथा राजनि वर्तसे।तथा मातृषु वर्तेथाः सर्वास्वेवाविशेषतः।।2.52.34।।

Transliteration

bharataś cāpi vaktavyo yathā rājani vartase |

tathā mātṛṣu vartethāḥ sarvāsvevāviśeṣataḥ || 2.52.34 ||

Translation

And Bharata too should be told: as he conducts himself toward the king, so should he conduct himself toward all the mothers, without distinction.

Context

You should tell Bharata that just as he treats the king so should he treat all the mothers without differentiating betwen them.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Bharata
• King Dasharatha
• the queens/mothers (Kausalya, Kaikeyi, Sumitra implied)
• Sumantra

FAQs

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

Dharma is impartial reverence within the family: honoring all mother-figures equally, maintaining harmony and justice in the royal household.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama gives Sumantra a message for Bharata about proper conduct after Rama’s departure.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s expected restraint and reverence—obedience to elders and equal respect to all mothers.