Shloka 2.52.70

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

Devanagari script

दीर्घबाहुर्नरव्याघ्रो जटिलत्वमधारयत्।।2.52.69।।तौ तदा चीरवसनौ जटामण्डलधारिणौ।आशोभेतामृषिसमौ भ्रातरौ रामलक्ष्मणौ।।2.52.70।।

Transliteration

tau tadā cīravasanau jaṭāmaṇḍaladhāriṇau | āśobhetām ṛṣisamau bhrātarau rāmalakṣmaṇau || 2.52.70 ||

Translation

Then the two brothers, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa—clad in bark garments and wearing crowns of matted locks—shone like sages.

Context

The longarmed Rama, the best of men, put on locks of matted hair. As the two brothers, Rama and Lakshmana stood dressed in bark wearing crowns of matted hair, they resembled two resplendent ascetics.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• bark garments (cīra)
• matted locks (jaṭā)

FAQs

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

Dharma is steadfast acceptance of the vowed path: the princes outwardly adopt ascetic signs, aligning conduct and appearance with their chosen duty.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa have transitioned into forest-life discipline; their attire and matted hair mark their entry into an ascetic mode of living.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-restraint and commitment—both brothers embody disciplined renunciation consistent with their vows.