Shloka 2.52.8

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

Devanagari script

ततः स प्राञ्जलिर्भूत्वा गुहो राघवमब्रवीत्।उपस्थितेयं नौर्देव भूयः किं करवाणि ते।।2.52.8।।

Transliteration

ācamya ca yathāśāstraṃ nadīṃ tāṃ saha sītayā | prāṇamat prītisaṃhṛṣṭo lakṣmaṇaś cāmitaprabhaḥ || 2.52.79 ||

Translation

Having sipped water in accordance with scriptural rule, he—together with Sītā—bowed to that river; and Lakṣmaṇa too, of immeasurable radiance, delighted and full of devotion, paid reverent obeisance.

Context

Then Guha with folded palms said to Rama: O king, the boat ready. Tell me what else can I do for you.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Gaṅgā (river; implied by context)

FAQs

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

Maryādā (right conduct): even in exile, the protagonists uphold śāstric discipline and reverence toward sacred nature.

What is the narrative situation?

Before/while crossing the Gaṅgā, the party ritually sips water and offers respectful salutations to the river.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Religious attentiveness and gratitude—honoring the river as sacred support for their journey.