Shloka 2.6.19

रामाभिषेकपूर्वसज्जा — Preparations for Rama’s Coronation

Devanagari script

अलङ्कारं पुरस्यैवं कृत्वा तत्पुरवासिनः।आकाङ्क्षमाणा रामस्य यौवराज्याभिषेचनम्।।2.6.19।।समेत्य सङ्घशस्सर्वे चत्वरेषु सभासु च।कथयन्तो मिथस्तत्र प्रशशंसुर्जनाधिपम्।।2.6.20।।

Transliteration

prakāśakaraṇārthaṃ ca niśāgamanaśaṅkayā |

dīpavṛkṣāṃs tathā cakrur anu rathyāsu sarvaśaḥ || 2.6.18 ||

Translation

And, fearing that night might fall, they set up “lamp-trees” everywhere along the streets, so that the city would remain brightly lit.

Context

Thus the residents of Ayodhya decorated the city and eagerly waited for Rama's cornonation as heir-apparent. Gathered in groups at public squares and in the assembly halls they conversed among themselves about the event, praising Dasaratha, the lord among men.

Characters & Entities

• Ayodhyā (implied)
• streets (rathyā)
• lamp-trees (dīpavṛkṣa)

FAQs

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

Responsibility in public life: dharma includes practical care—ensuring safety, order, and readiness for a sacred civic event.

What is the narrative situation?

The city’s streets are illuminated with decorative lamp-stands in preparation for the coronation festivities.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Foresight and diligence—organizing the city so the ceremony can proceed smoothly regardless of time.