Shloka 2.52.53
गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)
इमे चापि हया वीर यदि ते वनवासिनः।परिचर्यां करिष्यन्ति प्राप्स्यन्ति परमां गतिम्।।2.52.53।।
ime cāpi hayā vīra yadi te vanavāsinaḥ |
paricaryāṃ kariṣyanti prāpsyanti paramāṃ gatim ||2.52.53||
O heroic one, if these horses too could serve you while you dwell in the forest, they would attain the highest destiny.
O valiant one, if these horses too could render services to you while you dwell in the forest, they would attain the supreme state.
Service to a dharmic person is portrayed as spiritually elevating; even humble agents (like animals) participate in dharma through supportive action.
Sumantra expands his plea by including the chariot-horses, suggesting that accompanying Rama benefits all who serve him.
Reverence for Rama’s righteousness and an inclusive view of merit—Sumantra imagines service as sanctifying for everyone involved.