Shloka 2.55.4

चित्रकूटमार्गोपदेशः — Instructions for the Chitrakuta Route and the Yamuna Crossing

Devanagari script

गङ्गायमुनयो स्सन्धिमासाद्य मनुजर्षभौ।कालिन्दीमनुगच्छेतां नदीं पश्चान्मुखाश्रिताम्।।।।

Transliteration

gaṅgāyamunayos sandhim āsādya manujarṣabhau | kālindīm anugacchetāṁ nadīṁ paścānmukhāśritām ||

Translation

Having reached the confluence of the Gaṅgā and the Yamunā, O best of men, proceed along the Kālindī (Yamunā), which here flows westward.

Context

Reaching the confluence of rivers Ganga and Yamuna, O Rama and Lakshmana best among men! proceed along the Kalindi (Yamuna) river flowing westward.

Characters & Entities

• Bharadvaja
• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Ganga
• Yamuna
• Kalindi

FAQs

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

Dharma as guidance and right course: the sage directs the princes along a proper route, reflecting the rishi’s role in aligning action with auspicious geography and safe conduct.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharadvāja provides travel directions after they reach the Gaṅgā–Yamunā confluence, instructing them to follow the Yamunā (Kālindī).

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverence for wise counsel—Rama and Lakṣmaṇa’s journey proceeds under rishi-guidance, highlighting humility and disciplined obedience.