Shloka 2.70.20

भरतस्य दूतसमागमः तथा केकयराजनः अनुज्ञा (Bharata Meets the Messengers; Kekaya King Grants Leave)

Devanagari script

रुक्मनिष्कसहस्रे द्वे षोडशाश्वशतानि च।सत्कृत्य कैकयीपुत्रं केकयो धनमादिशत्।।2.70.20।।

Transliteration

rukmaniṣkasahasre dve ṣoḍaśāśvaśatāni ca | satkṛtya kaikayīputraṃ kekayo dhanam ādiśat ||2.70.20||

Translation

Honoring Kaikeyī’s son, the king of Kekaya granted him wealth: two thousand gold niṣkas and sixteen hundred horses as well.

Context

King of Kekaya generously gave to the son of Kaikeyi (Bharata) in his honour two thousand gold coins and sixteen hundred horses.

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Kaikeyī
• King of Kekaya
• niṣka (gold coins)
• horses

FAQs

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

Material support in service of righteous action: resources are offered so that a prince can fulfill duty effectively, showing that wealth is dharmic when used to uphold responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

Before Bharata departs, the Kekaya king provides substantial wealth and mounts for travel and royal needs.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The giver’s generosity and foresight—ensuring Bharata’s journey and obligations are not hindered by lack of means.