Shloka 2.57.1

सप्तपञ्चाशः सर्गः — Sumantra’s Return to Ayodhya and the Palace’s Lament

Devanagari script

कथयित्वा सुदुःखार्तस्सुमन्त्रेण चिरं सह।रामे दक्षिणकूलस्थे जगाम स्वगृहं गुहः।।।।

Transliteration

kathayitvā suduḥkhārtaḥ sumantreṇa ciraṃ saha | rāme dakṣiṇa-kūla-sthe jagāma sva-gṛhaṃ guhaḥ ||

Translation

After speaking for a long while with Sumantra—tormented with deep sorrow—Guha went back to his own home once Rāma had reached the southern bank.

Context

Until Rama reached the southern bank, Guha kept talking with Sumantra for long and returned home with great sorrow.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Guha
• Sumantra
• Gaṅgā (implied by the crossing context)

FAQs

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

Loyalty and compassionate duty: Guha remains present and supportive until Rāma is safely across, showing dharmic friendship expressed through responsible care.

What is the narrative situation?

After assisting and accompanying the exiles, Guha converses with Sumantra and returns home only after Rāma has reached the far bank.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Maitrī (steadfast friendship) and karuṇā (compassion): Guha’s sorrow underscores sincere attachment grounded in respect for Rāma’s righteousness.