Shloka 2.55.5
चित्रकूटमार्गोपदेशः — Instructions for the Chitrakuta Route and the Yamuna Crossing
अथाऽसाद्य तु कालिन्दी शीघ्रस्रोतसमापगाम्।तस्यास्तीर्थं प्रचलितं पुराणं प्रेक्ष्य राघवौ।।।।तत्र यूयं प्लवं कृत्वा तरतांशुमतीं नदीम्।
athāsādya tu kālindīṃ śīghrasrotasamāpagām | tasyās tīrthaṃ pracalitaṃ purāṇaṃ prekṣya rāghavau || tatra yūyaṃ plavaṃ kṛtvā taratāṃśumatīṃ nadīm ||
When you reach the swift-flowing river Kāлиндī (Yamunā), you will see upon its bank an ancient, well-trodden ford. There, make a raft and cross the river Aṃśumatī, the daughter of the Sun.
On reaching that swift-flowing river Yamuna, O Rama and Lakshmana! O scions of the Raghu race, you will find an ancient spot (on the river bank). There make a raft and cross Kalindi, daughter of the Sun.
Dharma here appears as prudent, non-harmful conduct during exile: choosing a recognized ford and using a raft reflects responsible action, care for companions, and respect for established ways (loka-pracāra).
Guha directs Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa on the onward route, instructing them how to cross the Yamunā safely by locating an ancient, well-known crossing-place and making a raft.
Practical wisdom and protective care—guidance that safeguards the exiles and supports their dharmic journey.