Shloka 2.55.14

चित्रकूटमार्गोपदेशः — Instructions for the Chitrakuta Route and the Yamuna Crossing

Devanagari script

तौ काष्ठसङ्घातमथो चक्रतु स्सुमहाप्लवम्।शुष्कैर्वंशै स्समास्तीर्णमुशीरैश्च समावृतम्।।।।

Transliteration

tau kāṣṭha-saṅghātam atho cakratuḥ su-mahā-plavam |

śuṣkair vaṃśaiḥ samāstīrṇam uśīraiś ca samāvṛtam ||

Translation

Then the two made a very large float by binding logs together, spreading dry bamboo over it, and covering it with fragrant uśīra grass-roots.

Context

Then they both made a big wooden float by joining logs of wood, spreading bamboos on it and covering it with the (fragrant roots of) Ushira bushes.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Kālindī (Yamunā)
• plava (float/raft)
• uśīra
• vaṃśa (bamboo)

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed through responsible action: they solve the problem safely using available resources, prioritizing the well-being of all travelers.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa construct a large raft/float to cross the Yamunā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Resourcefulness and teamwork—turning forest materials into a safe means of passage.