Shloka 2.54.18
भरद्वाजाश्रमप्राप्तिः — Arrival at Bharadvāja’s Hermitage and Counsel toward Citrakūṭa
नानाविधानन्नरसान् वन्यमूलफलाश्रयान्।तेभ्यो ददौ तप्ततपा वासं चैवाभ्यकल्पयत्।।।।
tasya tadvacanaṁ śrutvā rājaputrasya dhīmataḥ |
upānayat dharmātmā gām arghyam udakaṁ tataḥ ||
Hearing those words of the wise prince, the righteous-souled sage then brought a cow, water, and arghya—honor-offerings due to a guest.
The ascetic who practised severe penance offered them different kinds of food and drink made from roots and fruits available in the forest. He also provided them a place to rest in.
Atithi-dharma (duty to a guest): the sage responds to Rama’s truthful words by offering the traditional honors—showing that righteousness is practiced through concrete acts of hospitality.
After listening to Rama, Bharadvaja performs guest-reception by arranging customary offerings.
Generosity and propriety—Bharadvaja’s careful observance of the ethical code of welcoming guests.