Shloka 2.54.5
भरद्वाजाश्रमप्राप्तिः — Arrival at Bharadvāja’s Hermitage and Counsel toward Citrakūṭa
प्रयागमभितः पश्य सौमित्रे धूममुन्नतम्।अग्नेर्भगवतः केतुं मन्ये सन्निहितो मुनिः।।।।
tatra kuñjara-yūthāni mṛga-yūthāni cābhitaḥ |
vicaranti vanānte 'smin tāni drakṣyasi rāghava ||
There, throughout that forest-region, herds of elephants and herds of deer roam about—you will see them, O Rāghava.
O son of Sumitra, look at the column of smoke rising like the banner of the venerable fire-god near Prayaga. I think an ascetic dwells nearby.
Dharma includes harmonious coexistence with living beings: the forest is depicted as a shared space where one lives without needless harm, respecting the integrity of nature.
The sage describes Citrakūṭa’s environment, emphasizing abundant wildlife that Rama will encounter there.
Rama’s role as a restrained protector—one who can dwell among powerful creatures without fear or aggression, maintaining balance.