Shloka 2.67.18

अयोध्यायां शोक-रात्रिः तथा अराजक-राष्ट्रस्य नीतिविचारः (The Night of Lamentation in Ayodhya and the Political Ethics of a Kingless Realm)

Devanagari script

नाराजके जनपदे वाहनै शशीघ्रगामिभिः।नरा निर्यान्त्यरण्यानि नारीभिस्सह कामिनः।।।।

Transliteration

nārājake janapade udyānāni samāgatāḥ | sāyāhne krīḍituṃ yānti kumāryo hemabhūṣitāḥ ||

Translation

In a land without a king, maidens adorned with gold—even when gathered together—do not go at evening to the gardens to play and enjoy themselves.

Context

In a country without a king, pleasure-seeking men will not drive in the woods on swift-moving chariots with women.

Characters & Entities

• udyāna (garden)
• kumārī (maidens)

FAQs

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

A dharmic ruler provides security enabling ordinary life—especially the safe movement of vulnerable members of society—without fear.

What is the narrative situation?

The speakers illustrate social insecurity under anarchy: even routine evening recreation in public gardens becomes impossible.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protectiveness (rakṣā) as a royal virtue—good rule is measured by the safety of everyday citizens.