Shloka 2.52.42

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

Devanagari script

दूरेऽपि निवसन्तं त्वां मानसेनाग्रतः स्थितम्।चिन्तयन्तोऽद्य नूनं त्वां निराहाराः कृताः प्रजाः।।2.52.42।।

Transliteration

dūre ’pi nivasantaṃ tvāṃ mānasenāgrataḥ sthitam | cintayanto ’dya nūnaṃ tvāṃ nirāhārāḥ kṛtāḥ prajāḥ ||

Translation

Though you dwell far away, the people hold you in their hearts as if you stood before them. Today, surely, they will go without food, absorbed only in thoughts of you.

Context

Although living at a distance, the subjects feel in their minds that you are just ahead of them. Today they will certainly go without food, brooding over you.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• prajāḥ (people of Ayodhyā)

FAQs

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

The verse highlights rājadharma’s moral bond between a righteous prince and his subjects: when the ruler embodies dharma, the people’s welfare and even their daily life (food, routine) become emotionally tied to him.

What is the narrative situation?

Sumantra, preparing to return toward Ayodhyā after escorting Rāma into exile, tells Rāma that the citizens will suffer intensely in his absence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s virtue as an ideal leader—his perceived righteousness inspires deep loyalty and concern among the people.