Shloka 2.64.73

शब्दवेध्य-अनर्थः, ऋषिशापः, दशरथस्य प्राणत्यागः (The Sound-Target Tragedy, the Sage’s Curse, and Dasaratha’s Death)

Devanagari script

कौसल्ये चित्तमोहेन हृदयं सीदतीव मे।वेदये न च संयुक्तान् शब्दस्पर्शरसानहम्।।।।

Transliteration

kausalyā cittamohena hṛdayaṃ sīdatīva me | vedaye na ca saṃyuktān śabdasparśarasān aham ||

Translation

O Kausalyā, in this bewilderment my heart seems to sink; I can no longer properly perceive the combined sensations of sound, touch, and taste.

Context

O Kausalya!, my heart, it appears is sinking and on account of delusion I am not able to feel the sense objects like sound touch and taste together.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Kausalyā

FAQs

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

It warns that uncontrolled grief and delusion can erode discernment; dharma depends on clarity of mind, which must be protected through right counsel and restraint.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha’s physical and mental faculties collapse as he nears death, speaking to Kausalyā about failing perception.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Human vulnerability is emphasized rather than heroism—highlighting the need for steadiness (dhairya) and truthful recognition of suffering.