Shloka 2.58.14

अष्टपञ्चाशः सर्गः (Sarga 58) — Daśaratha Questions Sumantra; Messages from the Forest Threshold

Devanagari script

अब्रवीन्मां महाराज धर्ममेवानुपालयन्।अञ्जलिं राघवः कृत्वा शिरसाऽभिप्रणम्य च।।।।

Transliteration

iti sūto narendreṇa bodhitaḥ sajjamānayā |

uvāca vācā rājānaṁ sa bāṣpa-paribaddhayā ||

Translation

Thus questioned by the king, the charioteer spoke to him—his words faltering and his voice choked with tears.

Context

With palms folded and head bowed, O great king Rama offered his salutations to you in confirmity with righteousness and said to me:

Characters & Entities

• Sūta (charioteer)
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as compassionate truth-telling: even when grief overwhelms speech, one must convey what is asked faithfully, with empathy.

What is the narrative situation?

After Daśaratha’s questions about Rāma, the charioteer begins his account, but is emotionally overcome.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The charioteer’s sincerity and compassion are emphasized—his tears show genuine participation in the king’s sorrow.